A man convicted earlier this month on murder, attempted murder and arson charges associated with a fatal fire in Guthrie Center, was sentenced Friday to serve two-life sentences. According to reports, a District Judge handed down the sentence for 27-year old Patrick Thompson for murdering his step-sister, 12 year-old Paige Exline and her cousin, 16-year-old Shakiah Cockerham. The Judge also ordered Thompson to pay $150,000 to each family.

On Oct. 8^th, Thompson was found guilty by a Monroe County jury, of two counts of first degree murder, two counts of attempted murder and arson. The May 2017 fire in Guthrie Center resulted in the deaths of the girls, and injuries to their grandmother Shirley Exline and their uncle William Long III.

Thompson’s step-father James Exline was sentenced to 75 years in prison for sexually abusing his daughter Paige in Greene County before her death. Thompson’s step-brother Noah is facing seven felony charges for allegedly sexually abusing Paige. And, while his trial is currently set for October 30^th, court documents indicate plea negotiations are underway.