Local

Convicted killer Michael Bargo says he doesn't want death penalty

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — The man convicted of killing a Marion County teenager testified Wednesday as his attorneys fought to save his life.

Michael Bargo's attorneys tried to convince a judge he should not be put to death. A jury recommended execution after finding Bargo guilty of beating, burning and shooting Seath Jackson in 2011.

The hearing permits both sides to present evidence for either a life or death sentence.

Bargo took the stand and told the court that he doesn't want to die.

"I didn't do this. I know I didn't do this. I shouldn't get the death penalty. I shouldn't get a life sentence," he said.

Bargo didn't admit any wrongdoing, instead saying he never got a chance to prove his innocence.

"It's pretty bad a 15-year-old kid got killed. It's pretty messed up, but I didn't do this," he said.

The judge then made it clear to Bargo this is his chance to comment on what sentence he should get. His defense attorney at times had to keep him on track.

While the jury recommended the death sentence, it's up to the judge to make the final decision.