Two Sandusky Police Department leaders made powerful statements to the court before Erie County Judge Tygh Tone sentenced Kevin Randleman to life in prison without parole Friday.

(UPDATED WITH VIDEO 2:50 p.m.) Kevin Randleman pleaded guilty to aggravated murder Friday morning at a hearing in Erie County Common Pleas Court.

Attorneys delved deeply into Kevin Randleman's mental abilities to determine whether the accused cop killer can face the death penalty.

City commissioner Pervis Brown Jr. defended himself against accusations he botched the search for a new police chief by excluding any officers with present or past associations with the Perkins Police Department from consideration.

A five-year drug investigation culminated Tuesday with the arrests of 18 "mid-level' drug dealers in Sandusky, Ottawa and Wood counties.

The Erie County Dog Pound has these dogs available for adoption:

Maybe Star will have better luck with her next owner. The friendly, 1-year-old German shepherd is recovering this week after a rope, used as a leash, caused severe injuries to her neck. (WARNING: Some users may find images with this story disturbing. Discretion is advised.)