Man Who Sabotaged Air Traffic System Gets 12.5 Years

(CBS) -- The Federal Aviation Administration contractor who admitted to setting fire to a west suburban radar facility last year -- effectively shutting down air traffic across much of the nation -- was sentenced Friday to 12 1/2  years in prison.

A contrite Brian Howard, formerly of Naperville, apologized for his actions from last September and said he was suffering from depression and anxiety. In May, the field technician had pleaded guilty to setting the fire at the FAA facility in Aurora. The blaze crippled Chicago's two airports and created a ripple effect across the country.

He faced at least 10 years in prison, under a plea deal with federal prosecutors. Federal Judge Gary Feinerman said he took into account Howard's mental problems in handing down the sentence.

Howard, 37, reportedly had been disgruntled with his employers, the firm that contracted with the FAA.