BREAKING: “I loved Alex very much,” Ezra McCandless sentenced to life with eligibility for parole after 50 years for killing Alex Woodworth


Ezra McCandless sentencing

Dunn County (WQOW) – It was an emotional day in Dunn County Court as both sides tried to convince the judge what should happen to convicted killer Ezra McCandless.

After roughly four hours of the defense and state addressing the judge, Judge James Peterson sentenced McCandless to life in prison_ with eligibility for extended supervision after 50 years in prison.

Judge James Peterson said he cannot know if McCandless will still be a danger to society in 20 years.

Peterson said McCandless did not appear to show remorse during the trial.

Back in November, McCandless was found guilty of 1st degree intentional homicide for stabbing Alex Woodworth 16 times in March 2018.

Authorities say after she stabbed Woodworth she left his body in a car in the town of Springbrook between Eau Claire and Menomonie.

In court on Friday, the prosecutors called Woodworth’s family and friends to the stand who shared memories of his life and character. They said he was a smart man who had a lot of success ahead of him.

The state said McCandless lured Woodworth to a remote location and made 16 deliberate decisions to stab him. They said she never tried to help Woodworth and she cut herself to make herself look like a victim.

When it was the defense’s time to persuade the judge they spoke about McCandless’ past calling her a loving person who was good with kids and animals.

McCandless’ mother took the stand and said McCandless didn’t get the attention she deserved growing up. Her mother said she divorced McCandless’ dad and that was hard on McCandless.

McCandless’ attorney asked the judge to give her the chance at extended supervision as soon as possible. She said in 20 years McCandless will deserve the opportunity to show she is no longer a threat to society.

McCandless herself was the final person to address the judge.

“I loved Alex very much,” McCandless said. “I also feel a great loss.”

McCandless said she was sorry, especially to Woodworth’s parents.

“I will never find words to express how sorry I am,” McCandless said.


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