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U.S.

Florida Man Who Drank Victim's Blood Gets 20 Years

Associated Press
Published | Updated
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Mauricio Lopez

BARTOW, Fla. – A central Florida man accused of killing his roommate and drinking the man's blood has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.

As part of a deal with prosecutors, 43-year-old Mauricio Lopez pleaded no contest Wednesday to second-degree murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and robbery with a deadly weapon.

Authorities say Lopez fatally stabbed 32-year-old Macario Cruz in August 2010. Authorities say Lopez drank a cup of Cruz's blood as part of a ritual.

Prosecutors say they agreed to the deal because a major witness — the victim's brother — was in Mexico and unavailable to testify.