Emily Shane's Killer Sentenced to 15 Years to Life in Prison

A man who was despondent over losing his job and drove recklessly along Pacific Coast Highway, crashing his car and killing a 13-year-old Malibu girl, has been sentenced to 15 years to life in prison.

Sina Khankhanian, 28, was convicted May 17 of second-degree murder for the 2010 death of Emily Rose Shane on Pacific Coast Highway near Heathercliff Road in Malibu.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Katherine Mader rejected a defense bid for a new trial before handing down the sentence.

"Emily sounds like such a wise and lovely young woman," Mader said. "I can't imagine the pain a mother would feel."

She said she believes Khankhanian's turbulent relationship with his girlfriend negatively impacted his behavior.

"There are two tragedies here. The death of Emily Shane and the life incarceration of [Khankhanian]," Mader said.

Emily's mother, Ellen Shane, read a statement before the judge, asking for justice for her daughter.

"I am so relieved the jury saw the truth and my daughter's murderer will pay for his crimes," she said.

Michel Shane, Emily's father, started his speech by showing a picture of Emily to the courtroom.

"This is our girl who is not with us anymore," he said.

He said that nothing could replace his daughter and he is thrilled the judicial process is over.

Their daughter, 19-year-old Leigh Shane, said she was best friends with her youngest sister.

"I should still have her sitting next to me in my car whenever I am driving to the school she attended. Instead, whenever I drive that way I have to pass the spot where she was unfairly killed and taken from me and my family forever," Leigh Shane said.

Khankhanian also addressed the court.

"I am deeply sorry for the pain and grief I have caused to the Shane family," Khankhanian said, his voice void of emotion.

He also asked the judge to sentence him to a psychiatric hospital, where he could receive treatment for his autism.

"I want to help kids who have autism," Khankhanian said.

His attorney, Bradley Brunon, who has argued that Khankhanian's autism did not allow him to form the intent to kill Emily, asked the judge for a 10-year sentence and probation.

"This case is unique because Mr. Khankhanian has no criminal history of any kind," Brunon said.

He said 50 friends and family members wrote to the court, sharing Khankhanian's life story and explaining his actions on the day of Emily's death.

Deputy District Attorney Marna Miller said Khankhanian understood when he rejected a plea offer that he was "rolling the dice."

She said he should receive a life sentence.

Outside of court, Michel Shane said his family would always oppose parole for Khankhanian.

"My daughter died at 13 years old and let's say she would have lived another 60 years. I want him to spend those 60 years (in prison),'' he said.

City News Service contributed to this report.