Ex-U.Va. lacrosse player's murder conviction affirmed

RICHMOND, Va. - An appeals court has affirmed the second-degree murder conviction of a former University of Virginia lacrosse player who fatally beat his ex-girlfriend, Yeardley Love.

The Court of Appeals of Virginia on Tuesday rejected George W. Huguely V's appeal in the May 2010 slaying of Love. Attorneys for the Chevy Chase, Md., man argued that Huguely was denied his 6th Amendment right to counsel when one of his lawyers fell ill during his February 2012 trial in Charlottesville.

A 22-year-old member of the U.Va. women's lacrosse team, Love was found dead in her apartment after Huguely kicked a hole in her bedroom door and beat her after a day of heavy drinking, according to trial testimony. She was from suburban Baltimore.

Huguely's appeal also raised questions about jury selection and instructions.

According to CBS DC, Huguely could reduce his prison sentence by 15 percent if he participates in prison programs and stays out of trouble. Virginia has no parole system.

"We continue in our love and support for George, and our lawyers are evaluating all options to get him a fair trial," Marta Murphy, George's mother, said in a statement, reports CBS DC.

A statement from Sharon and Lexie Love, the victim's mother and sister, read: "We would like to thank everyone who has supported us throughout this entire process. We are relieved and ready to put this chapter behind us so that we can devote our full efforts towards building The One Love Foundation, and continue to raise awareness about Relationship Violence. We would also like to thank Dave Chapman and Leah Darron for their dedication and working tirelessly on Yeardley's behalf."

Sharon Love has filed two lawsuits against Huguely and UVA's athletic department officials and coaches for allegedly ignoring the student's drinking and violent behavior, according to CBS DC. She is seeking nearly $60 million.