Shelley Malil

Shelley Malil, which is the actor best known for playing an electronics store clerk in 'The 40-Year-Old Virgin,' was sentenced to life in prison Thursday for the attempted premeditated murder of his ex-girlfriend, Kendra Beebe. Malil was sentenced by San Diego County Superior Court Judge HARRY ELIAS three months after a jury had convicted him of attempted premeditated murder and assault with a deadly weapon. However, the actor was told that he may be eligible for parole in 12 years time. Malil apologised for stabbing Beebe and spoke of his desire to go to prison.

Also, Malil was found guilty of attempted premeditated murder and assault with a deadly weapon in September. The jury deliberated less than four hours before making the decision.
The actor will be eligible for parole in 12 years though prosecutor Keith Watanabe said with time already served and good behavior, Malil could be free in as little as nine years. Beebe was stabbed 20 times by Malil at her San Diego County home in August 2008 after he found her socializing with another man, David Maldonado. Malil said he felt threatened and believed Maldonado was going to kill him.

Defense attorney Matthew Roberts told jurors in his closing arguments that while there was no denying Malil went too far with the knife, he never intended to kill Beebe. Malil pleaded not guilty to the charges.