BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) – The man charged with shooting and killing
a Bismarck police officer has been sentenced to life in prison.
 Judge David Reich sentenced Steven Bannister to life in prison without
the possibility of parole  for the July 2011 death of Bismarck Police Sgt. Steve Kenner.

 

Bannister entered an Alford plea last month in the case.

 

An Alford plea means a defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges
there is enough evidence to convict him.

 

The plea is treated as a conviction for sentencing purposes.
Authorities say Bannister shot and killed Kenner when the
officer responded to a domestic disturbance call.

 

Kenner was the first Bismarck police officer killed in the line of duty.