Jacob Sellinger sentenced to 50 years in prison for second degree murder of David Hansen

District Court Judge Richard Stochl Monday afternoon sentenced 18-year-old Jacob Seelinger of Decorah to a 50-year prison term in the beating death of 47-year-old David Hansen of Freeport.

In announcing the sentence, the judge noted the difficulties Seelinger has had with drugs; the lack of remorse shown by the defendant for the crime; and the brutality of the crime.

Judge Stochl's sentence came after four family members of Hansen testified about the impact the crime had on them.  Father Elmer Hansen recalled that his son "was beaten so badly, the doctors said he had no chance of surviving."  Brother Allen Hansen told Seelinger "You destroyed a family...you took it all."  Son Anthony Hansen urged Seelinger to be ready to help and serve people after he comes out of prison, while son Tommy Hansen told Seelinger the murder had left him "17 and on my own."

Seelinger made brief comments in court that he was sorry and "I'd like to apologize for the trouble I caused."

In addition to the 50-year prison term, Judge Stochl ordered Seelinger to make $150,000 in victim restituion payments.