A couple convicted in the death of a ten-year-old girl were sentenced on Thursday afternoon.

Last month, a jury found Patrick and Joy Watkins guilty of the murder of Patrick's daughter, Michaela. The father claimed she died after falling down the stairs.

A medical examiner says they believe she was beaten with a wooden object and the injuries led to her death.

The jury recommended a life sentence and the judge agreed with that decision at Thursday's hearing.

Defense attorneys say they plan to appeal the convictions.