Man gets 28 years for killing North Carolina bicyclist
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}A man has been sentenced to up to 28 years in prison for beating a bicyclist to death in North Carolina last year.
News outlets reported that 44-year-old Leonard Cleon Pocknett Jr. pleaded guilty to second-degree murder Monday in New Hanover County Superior Court. Pocknett was originally charged with first-degree murder.
Police said 58-year-old Gregory Gineman was beaten to death May 10 in Wilmington. Investigators say Gineman and a friend were riding bikes when Gineman was nearly hit by Pocknett's SUV. Investigators say Gineman yelled at Pocknett, who then followed the bikers and then got out and beat Gineman.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}An autopsy said Gineman suffered fractures to his face, ribs and spine.
Pocknett's 16-year-old son is also charged in the case and is to appear in court next week.