Sonya Lynn Armontrout

Sonya Lynn Fick will be approximately 75 1/2 years old when she is released from prison after serving two consecutive sentences: attempted murder and murder. She is expected to be transferred to Pendelton Diagnostic Center Wednesday morning.

Fick was sentenced this afternoon in Kosciusko Circuit Court by Special Judge Curtis Palmer, Marshall Circuit Court. Palmer, who accepted the plea agreement submitted on Nov. 17, handed down a 20-year, non-suspended sentence for attempted murder and a 65-year sentence with 20 years suspended on the murder charge. The sentencing followed the plea agreement.

The attempted murder charge has been ordered served first, followed by the 45-year murder sentence. She will return to Kosciusko County to serve 10 years on formal probation. If she violates probation she is subject to being re-entered into the DOC for up to 20 years.

Fick will be given close to two years jail time and good time credit for time already served against her 65 year sentence. While serving her sentence she will be given a day-for-day credit. This will equate to approximately 32 1/2 years total time served.

Fick was charged with the murder of Steven L. Carman, at his Barbee Lake home, 44 EMS B10 Lane, Pierceton, on Dec. 18, 2013, and the attempted murder of Joseph Glant on that same day. (See Victim, Suspect Named In Barbee Shooting).

Prior to sentencing, Fick’s attorney, Anthony Churchward, Fort Wayne, was granted permission to read a statement from his client. Fick wrote, “No words could express the pain, hurt and discomfort I caused …” Offering an apology to Carman’s parents, her family and her children for the hurt and embarrassment

She stated she accepted responsibility for the pain she caused and is remorseful. “I’m so sorry.” She asked that her daughters find it in their hearts to forgive her. She also stated while her illness is no excuse, she has come to understand and denial was an excuse. “Accepting my responsibility is a key to rehabilitation. I’m looking forward to rehabilitation.”

During the less than 10-minute procedure, a letter from Fort Wayne psychologist Dr. Steven Ross was submitted as part of the pre-sentence investigation. The letter allegedly substantiated factual basis Fick was of the right mind the night of the murder as well as listing medications and treatment. This information will be sent to department of corrections officials.

Palmer alluded to letters received from the sister-in-law of the deceased as well as parents of the deceased. The family did not speak during court.

While the family has requested Fick have no contact with family of the deceased or her daughters during her incarceration, Palmer stated he had no control, but would relay the request to DOC officials. It was also noted following the hearing, a protective order prohibiting Fick’s contact with Carman’s family and her daughters, filed in Kosciusko County Superior Court, will be sent to the DOC.

Prior to being released into the custody of the Kosciusko County Sheriff, Churchwood requested that his client continue receiving mental health treatment and counseling and that her transfer to the women’s prison be expedited.