Brazill Apologizes to Teacher's Family

July 26 -- Facing a life sentence, 14-year-old Nathaniel Brazill apologized in court today to the family of the English teacher he killed last year, and insisted he never intended to harm him.

"Words cannot really explain how sorry I am, but that's all I have," said Brazill, breathing heavily but remaining stoic as he read a prepared statement at his sentencing hearing in a West Palm Beach, Fla., courthouse.

Brazill took the stand after members of his own family pleaded for leniency from Circuit Court Judge Richard Wennet, and relatives of slain teacher Barry Grunow asked the judge to give the boy life in prison.

"I am sorry for the pain I have caused the Grunow family," he said. "I have been thinking about how his children will be when they're my age. … As I look back on that day, I wish it had never happened and wish I could bring Mr. Grunow back.

"Regardless of what has been said, I never intended to hurt Mr. Grunow," Brazill said.

Brazill's fate now rests with Wennet, who must sentence the boy for second-degree murder in Grunow's shooting death last year. Wennet said he will announce his decision on Friday.

No matter what happens, Brazill will be at least 39 before he is able to leave prison. Convicted on May 16, he faces at least 25 years in prison under Florida's 10-20-to life law. Under the measure, a person must serve a minimum 10-year prison sentence if a gun is used in a crime, 20 years if it is fired, and a minimum of 25 years to life if someone is seriously hurt or killed by the gun.

Victim's Family Urges No Mercy

Grunow's mother and two brothers asked Wennet today to give Brazill the stiffest punishment, saying they believe he would pose a danger to society.

"This was not an accident," said Phyllis Grunow, the victim's mother. "I think Nathaniel should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. I don't think any family should have to go through this."

One of Barry Grunow's brothers told Wennet he has to send a message that it is not all right to kill someone, and Brazill has sentenced a mother and two children to life without their husband and father.