Marty Angelo testifies at sentencing hearing for convicted actor

Contact: Marty Angelo, 805-405-8174; MartyAngelo.com

HOLLYWOOD, Dec. 28, 2010 /Christian Newswire/ -- Prison Minister and author Marty Angelo appeared at the sentencing hearing for convicted "40-Year Old Virgin" actor Shelley Malil on December 16, 2010.

Malil was convicted in September of pre-mediated attempted murder of his ex- girlfriend, Kendra Beebe.

Angelo never met the troubled actor prior to his arrest in 2008. However, he sent a copy of his faith-based testimonial book, "Once Life Matters: A New Beginning" to Malil with the hopes of helping him through his incarceration.

When given the chance to testify on Malil's behalf Angelo explained to Judge Harry M. Elias that he has a special burden for celebrities like Mr. Malil because back 30 years ago when he worked in the entertainment business and was arrested for drug possession no one reached out to him with any messages of hope.

Angelo stated to the judge, "I vowed if I ever had the opportunity to help someone who gets themselves in my same situation I would do it. That is why I wrote my book and why I sent it to Mr. Malil and also to other troubled celebrities. It contains Hope. And Malil explained in many letters to me that he experienced that same Hope I write about in detail in my book.

"I believe Mr. Malil is not the same person who first committed this crime." Angelo continued. "Yes, he certainly has the same body but inside, deep within his spirit, he is a changed man who only wants to serve God and help others. I believe he is transformed. However, I also believe he still has to suffer the consequences for the crime he committed against Ms. Beebe."

Malil was sentenced to 12 years to life in prison and will be eligible for parole in about 10 years.

Shelley Malil referred to Angelo's book during his statement to the judge and said, "Marty's book came to me at a time in my life when I was contemplating my criminal actions while sitting in the county jail." Malil continued, "The book got through to me and showed me there is a better way to live through giving my life over to Jesus Christ and following His special plan and purpose for me."

For more information please see martyangelo.com