Death Penalty for Ledford

DALLAS, Ga. -- A jury sentenced Michael Ledford to death Friday for the murder of Jennifer Ewing along the Silver Comet Trail.

The same jury found Ledford guilty on Monday of sexually assaulting and killing Ewing on the popular cycling trail in 2006.

"Death is the only penalty that fits this crime," said Paulding County prosecutor Drew Lane during his closing arguments.

During the sentencing portion of the trial, jurors heard from mental health experts who talked about Ledford's problems, including his alcoholism, and how it affects his actions. The defense team also brought in some of Ledford's family members to help plead for his life.

"It makes him crazy," said Sherry Byess, Ledford's sister.

Byess testified Wednesday that drinking turns him into another man.

Ledford's defense team took the jury on an in-depth journey into Ledford's troubled life.

Family members of the 53-year-old victim read emotional accounts of their grief in court Tuesday -- which caused some jurors to cry.