Suspect In Vernon Brown Murder Sentenced

A man convicted of torturing and murdering a Clay Township nursery owner learned that he may spend the rest of his life behind bars.

On Tuesday, James Dossett was sentenced in the death of Vernon Brown. The judge sentenced him to a minimum of 39 years to life in prison.

Authorities said Dossett, along with three others broke into Brown's Phillipsburg home in an attempt to steal a safe that reportedly contained $1 million. However, Brown was killed during the break-in, according to police.

Dossett would not be eligible for parole until he is at least 63-year-old. Prosecutors have already filed the necessary paperwork to keep Brown behind bars with no parole.

Previous Stories: January 24, 2005: Jury Selection Begins In Nursery Owner Death September 17, 2004: Nursery Murder Suspect In Court September 1, 2004: Charges Filed Against Suspects In Nursery Murder May 12, 2003: Authorities Continue Investigation Into Local Nursery Death