The second defendant in the murder of Ohio State student Christopher Gerspacher was sentenced yesterday in Delaware for his role in the 2001 slaying.
Michael Roskuski, 34, of Delaware, was sentenced to nine years in prison, six years for conspiracy to commit murder charges and three additional years for a related gun charge.
Roskuski provided the .32 caliber hand gun that was used in the murder of Gerspacher. Patrick Brunty, 37, of Orient, Ohio, was sentenced Friday after he pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated murder, two counts of conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery, and aggravated robbery. He will serve 20 years of a life sentence before he will be eligible for parole, but he also must serve five consecutive years on a related gun violation. By pleading guilty and agreeing to a joint sentencing, Brunty avoided the death penalty.
As previously reported by The Lantern, both Roskuski and Brunty will testify against Eric Spar, 29, of Columbus, the last defendant in the case. Spar is charged with two counts of aggravated murder, two counts of conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery, aggravated robbery, and hiring Brunty to commit murder. Spar’s trial begins Jan. 13, and prosecutors will seek the death penalty.
Gerspacher, a senior in history was reported missing Dec. 22, 2001. His body was found on Jan. 29, after being shot to death in Delaware County near Alum Creek Reservoir.
– Compiled by Amanda Wurst
