NEW YORK, NY April 03, 2008 —Cesar Rodriguez was given the maximum sentence in the beating death of his 7-year-old step-daughter Nixzmary Brown. WNYC's Cindy Rodriguez reports from the Brooklyn Supreme Court.

Rodriguez who was convicted of manslaughter in the first degree and other lesser charges will serve between 26 and 29 years in prison. During the hearing Rodriguez addressed the court and after thanking the jury and the press, he said he loved Nixzmary and can honestly say he was accused of something he didn't do. Rodriguez then added I do take responsibility.

Prosecutor Ama Dwimoh questioned Rodriguez’ sincerity, and said pictures of the child's body and what she was forced to endure showed something other than love for Nixzmary. Reporting from Brooklyn Supreme Court, for WNYC, I'm Cindy Rodriguez.