Former American Idol singer jailed for life for murdering wife

A former music pastor who was once a contestant on the TV talent show American Idol was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after being convicted of the murder of his wife.

Prosecutors said Caleb Flynn, 40, staged an invasion after shooting Ashley Flynn, a 37-year-old teacher and volleyball coach, at their home in the US state of Ohio in February.

Flynn, who claimed his wife was killed by a burglar, wept in court after being found guilty last week on charges of murder, felonious assault and tampering with evidence.

Flynn appeared on American Idol in 2013, performing in front of judges Mariah Carey, Randy Jackson and Nicki Minaj.

He told viewers at the time that his wife had encouraged him to pursue his dreams by entering the contest.

Flynn apologised in court to his family, starting with his two daughters.

"I made vows to Ashley on our wedding day. I failed in those vows," he said.

Although he admitted to lying about many things, Flynn remained adamant that he was innocent.

"As I stand here before God, who is my ultimate judge, I am not lying when I say I did not kill my wife," he said before being sentenced.

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Prosecutors told jurors during closing arguments last week that Flynn wanted out of his marriage when he shot his wife at their home in Tipp City, a suburb of Dayton.

Flynn and the couple's two daughters were at home when police arrived.

'Actions will come'

Matthew Joseph, an assistant Miami County prosecutor, previously said that the night before the shooting, Flynn had sent a text to his former mistress Alleigha Botner saying: "I choose you. I'm free. Actions will come tomorrow."

Prosecutors said Flynn was afraid to lose custody of his children, as well as his high-paying job at his wife's family business and his position in the church.

"He wanted to keep his mistress and have his daughters all to himself," Mr Joseph said.

The gun used to kill Mrs Flynn has not been found, but prosecutors said Flynn's fingerprints and DNA were all over the scene.

They also said his devices showed that he was moving about the house even though he told investigators he was sleeping when his wife was shot.

(c) Sky News 2026: Former American Idol singer jailed for life for murdering wife