Sentencing phase resumes in Ohio case of 11 deaths

CLEVELAND, Ohio (AP) - The sentencing phase is set to resume in the case of a Cleveland man convicted of aggravated murder in the deaths of 11 women...

Luther Vandross was outed as gay after his death.

CLEVELAND, Ohio (AP) — The sentencing phase is set to resume in the case of a Cleveland man convicted of aggravated murder in the deaths of 11 women whose remains were found in his home and yard.

The jury that convicted 51-year-old Anthony Sowell (SOH’-wehl) is scheduled to continue hearing evidence Monday. It will recommend either the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.

A lawyer for Sowell has said the defense anticipated he would speak to jurors during the sentencing phase.

The defense claims Sowell suffered from mental illnesses caused by childhood trauma. A prosecutor has presented a report that showed Sowell denied being abused as a child.

Police have said Sowell lured victims to his home with the promise of alcohol or drugs.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.

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