Timothy Bliefnick, a former contestant on the popular TV game show "Family Feud," has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his estranged wife, Becky Postle Bliefnick. Last week, an Adams County judge in Illinois handed down the life sentence to Bliefnick, who was convicted of first-degree murder and home invasion after shooting his wife 14 times. The judge condemned Bliefnick's actions, stating, "Mr. Bliefnick, you researched this murder. You planned this murder. You practiced this murder." The judge also highlighted the chilling fact that Bliefnick committed the crime while their three children were upstairs in their beds.

The tragic incident occurred on February 23, 2023, when Becky's bullet-riddled body was discovered by her father in their Quincy home. Prosecutors argued that Bliefnick had broken into the house using a crowbar and had meticulously planned the murder, even researching how to force open a window and the police response time on Google. During the trial, it was revealed that Becky had expressed fear for her safety in text messages to her sister, stating that she believed Bliefnick was capable of harming her or taking the children away from her.

Bliefnick's behavior on the “Family Feud” episode in 2019 had also raised eyebrows. When asked about the biggest mistake he made at his wedding, he jokingly responded, "Honey, I love you, but I do." The comment now takes a chilling tone in light of his conviction for murdering his wife. The couple had married in 2009 but divorced in 2021 after a tumultuous relationship.

Becky Bliefnick was a respected nurse and a devoted mother to their three sons. Her family and friends spoke at the sentencing, expressing their profound grief and the impact Bliefnick's actions had on their lives. Bliefnick, who had worked at a local recycling firm and was a member of a community theater troupe, has been in custody since his arrest in March.

The judge's decision to sentence Bliefnick to life in prison reflects the seriousness of the crime and the harm inflicted on the victim's family. Bliefnick's attorney had requested a new trial, arguing that the defense did not adequately explore other suspects in the case. However, the judge found the evidence linking Bliefnick to the crime compelling and upheld the guilty verdict.

Becky's tragic death has left a void in the Quincy community, where she was beloved and respected. Her sister has set up a GoFundMe campaign to support her three sons, who are now left without both parents. The sentencing brings some closure to the case, but the pain and loss will linger for those who loved Becky Bliefnick.