The Auburn man set to go to trial for the 2011 murder of Katie Socci has pleaded guilty. David McNamara accepted a plea deal in court Thursday. Our Iris St. Meran spoke with the DA's office about the challenges in this case and how the Socci's family is handling this new development.

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AUBURN, N.Y. -- The Cayuga County District Attorney's Office was ready for David McNamara's murder trial on March 18th. McNamara is accused of strangling his ex-girlfriend, Katie Socci, to death in 2011. Things changed for them Thursday in court.

Chief Assistant District Attorney Chris Valdina said, "He pled guilty to murder in the second degree. He admitted he murdered Katie Socci. Murder in the second degree is the standard charge of murder in New York State."

After his plea, McNamara was convicted. He then waived his appeal rights and will be sentenced to 20 years to life in prison. He's already served two years for an unrelated drug charge. The Chief ADA says Socci's family was in court and are happy to not have to go through a lengthy, public trial.

“It was a very emotional moment for them obviously, but they're happy with the outcome,” Valdina added. “They have closure with respect to the legal case now."

Now with justice served, they can reflect on a life cut short, the life of a loving daughter, mother and friend.

“Katie Socci was somebody who just brought happiness to people on this earth. From everything we heard about her, she was a nurse and helped people," said Valdina.

McNamara's sentencing is scheduled for April 23rd.