ALLEN COUNTY, Kentucky (WTVF) — After four long years, the case is almost closed. Sentencing is set for child killer Timothy Madden on October 23 and Gabbi Doolin's parents will finally learn the horrible details of what happened to their daughter.
Madden's already pleaded guilty and will serve life in prison with no parole. But for the first time, detectives will testify on the evidence against him.
It will be hard for Gabbi Doolin's family, but they say they are ready.
"I could feel myself wanting to scream why? Why did you do this? Why did you take my baby," said Amy Doolin.
Now, she will get her chance during victim's impact statements at the two-day sentencing hearing beginning Wednesday for Madden.
Last month, Madden admitted to kidnapping and murdering Doolin's 7-year-old daughter Gabbi at a youth football game in Allen County, Kentucky in 2015.
In addition to hearing from family, evidence in the case will also be revealed - specifically, DNA from both blood and semen that clearly linked Madden to the horrible crime.
Much of the evidence to be presented is expected to be graphic - likely including photographs and witness statements. Prosecutors believe it is important that everyone understand exactly what Madden did to the child ... and why he will be locked up for the rest of his life.
And Gabbi's parents have a right to face their daughter's killer - a right they plan to take advantage of.
"We've waited four years and Gabbi's justice was long overdue," said Amy Doolin.
Many people wonder why Madden did not get the death penalty. Prosecutors say it was on the table, but in the end the family approved a life sentence to avoid the drawn-out process of appeals that a death sentence triggers.
