A former Metro East teacher pleaded guilty to attempted murder today and was sentenced to 20 years in prison for an attack that left a teenager clinging to life in a Belleville park. Samson Shelton entered his plea in St. Clair County. During his court appearance today, he answered the judge's questions but declined to address the court before his sentencing and didn't offer an apology to his victim.

Authorities say Samson snapped Ashley Reeves' neck in April of last year and left the teen in the park, where she was found 30 hours later.

Reeves was in court today and says she didn't expect an apology. She says she's glad to have the case over with and wants to go on with her life.

The 18-year-old says she's continuing her rehabilitation and plans to go to college.