Connell Watkins, 54, and Julie Ponder, 40, were convicted of reckless child abuse April 20 in the death of Candace Newmaker. Watkins also was convicted on three additional charges, including the unlawful practice of psychotherapy.
State District Judge Jane Tidball sentenced Watkins Monday and was scheduled to sentence Ponder later in the day.
Prosecutor Steve Jensen asked for the maximum sentence of nearly 48 years against Watkins. But the judge said Watkins had no previous criminal record and did not intend to kill the child.
Jensen said he was disappointed that the maximum sentence was not imposed, but it "does send a message to them that if they hurt children in the name of treating them, then they will be held criminally responsible."
Candace Newmaker was brought to Evergreen, Colo., by her adoptive mother, Jeane Newmaker, to receive two weeks of intensive "therapy" for an attachment disorder. The child died April 18, 2000.
Candace was wrapped in a sheet, and the "therapists" placed eight pillows around her and leaned into them - to simulate a mother's womb, according to court testimony. Candace was supposed to free herself and be "reborn" so she could bond with adoptive mother.
Several "treatment" sessions were videotaped, and several of them were shown to the jury during the trial. During the "rebirthing" procedure, the girl repeatedly said she couldn't breathe, pleaded to be released and told Watkins and Ponder she was going to die.
Two other workers who allegedly helped Watkins and Ponder during the fatal treatment face trials in September on charges of reckless child abuse resulting in death.
Candace's adoptive mother faces a lesser charge of negligent child abuse resulting in death. Her trial is also scheduled in September.
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