The father of a 9-year-old shot and killed by her brother was sentenced to 13 years behind bars Monday.
34-year-old Marcel Jelks was already a convicted felon so the gun shouldn't have been in the home in the first place.
"I wanted just really to apologize to my family because I know everybody has suffered behind this and I truly am sorry and I wish I could turn back the hands of time," said Marcel Jelks.
Jelks and his girlfriend left their 6 children under 10 home alone when they ran errands in March 2018. That's when the kids found the loaded gun and the 10-year-old in charge accidentally shot and killed his 9-year-old sister Miyanna Jelks.
"It's unfortunate that the clock can't be turned back because if the clocks been turned back you wouldn't be here and most individuals who appear before this court wouldn't be here also," said Judge Jeffrey Wagner.
Jelks was convicted on several charges including child neglect resulting in death and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
"All parents should know better not just yourself, but all parents," said Wagner.
Jelks has 12 more years to serve behind bars and 9 years of extended supervision.
Jelks father said he was relieved by Monday's sentencing and thought his son would serve more time.
The children's mother Talisha Lee was sentenced to two years behind bars and four years extended supervision.
