PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — A Pawtucket man will spend the rest of his life behind bars for killing his ex-girlfriend more than two years ago.
Michael Fernandes, 36, accepted a plea deal Friday in connection with the deadly shooting of 33-year-old Jocelyn DoCouto.
PRIOR COVERAGE: Pawtucket man accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend held without bail
A judge sentenced Fernandes to life in prison at the ACI on a first-degree murder charge, as well as an additional 40 years to serve for charges of felony assault resulting in serious bodily injuries, carrying a pistol without a license and prohibited person carrying a firearm.
If the case had proceeded to trial, prosecutors were prepared to prove that Fernandes murdered his former partner on Jan. 19, 2024, as she was leaving her hair salon business…