The sentencing hearing in the case of the State of Indiana v. John Myers II is Friday. Myers, 31, of Ellettsville, was found guilty Oct. 30 for the 2000 murder of IU sophomore Jill Behrman. Myers faces 45 to 65 years in prison for the crime. The Indiana Daily Student sat down with Jill's parents, Eric and Marilyn Behrman, after the trial to discuss their reaction to the end of the long process.
In one childhood photograph, Jill Kristen Behrman, wearing a pale blue dress with white flowers, black patent leather Mary Janes and knee-high white socks, grins avidly from her seat beside the Christmas tree, her arms barely wrapped around the family cat, Tigger. With his ears flattened and back claws out, Tigger looks none too pleased about the situation.
For Jill's parents, Eric and Marilyn Behrman, this is the type of image of their daughter that will remain forever imprinted in their memories -- a young girl filled with excitement for life and the promise of a bright future.
"She was starting to realize that happiness and fulfillment was more important (to her) than making lots of money," Marilyn said, her brown eyes soft and her voice strong as she explained what had motivated her daughter's life.