The last of three Ohio men prosecutors say took part in the "thrill-kill" slaying of a 12-year-old girl pleaded guilty and was sentenced to as many as 40 years in prison.

David Garvey, of Struthers, Ohio, pleaded guilty to third-degree murder on Tuesday just as jury selection was scheduled to begin for his trial on charges he killed Shannon Leigh Kos, of Youngstown on Oct. 8, 2000.

With his plea, Garvey avoided the death penalty and was sentenced to 20 to 40 years in prison.

Two other men, Perry Ricciardi II and William Monday, also of Struthers, have been sentenced to life in prison for Shannon's death.

After Garvey's plea, Shannon's mother, Patty Bodnar, told reporters she thought justice had been served.

"I'd like to thank ... everybody involved in his case and all they have done for us," Bodnar said.

District Attorney Matthew Mangino said he was also pleased the case was settled.