After nearly 3 years in the court system, Oliver Travis O'Quinn has been found guilty of first-degree murder of 24-year-old, University of Florida student Michelle Herndon.

Michelle Herndon's mother Belinda Herndon thanked Judge Peter Sieg for the opportunity to make a statement following the verdict because she said "she could not bear to have to return to court again." This mother, who has been the example of stoicism, finally let her emotions show on the final day of this long journey to justice.

Belinda Herdon made her remarks on behalf of herself and her husband who could not bear the emotional strain of being in the same room, she said, as Oliver O'Quinn, the man who killed their daughter.

O'Quinn has received life without parole. He will be sent to the Lake Butler Reception Center where it will be determined where he will spend the rest of his life.

Stacey Samuel