Teen sentenced to 15 years for family attack

Rebecca Trylch

MIDLAND (WJRT) -- (04/08/10) -- A 15 year old killed one of his brothers and attacked other members of his adoptive family, but that family says they still love him.

Today, Steven Pribbernow was sentenced after previously accepting a plea deal. His plea agreement will eventually make him eligible for parole.

It's a deal his family agreed to.

Wearing an orange jail jumpsuit and shackles, Pribbernow faced a Midland County judge charged as an adult.

Investigators say Pribbernow stabbed three of his brothers and his stepfather at their Geneva Township home last August.

"Their bodies bear the mark of what this man did to them," said Prosecutor Michael Carpenter.

Justin, 17, was killed in the attack.

The prosecutor said there was enough evidence to make the initial charge of first degree murder stick, but Pribbernow's adopted family agreed to a plea deal for a lesser charge with a lesser sentence.

Joshua Saylor, who was stabbed by his stepson, chose not to appear in court. Instead he presented his victim's impact statement on tape.

"No service rendered or punishment given can equal the lives that were taken. Yes, I said lives. Two sons were taken," Saylor said in the taped statement.

He also requested Pribbernow be required to watch the video shown at Justin's funeral.

Pribbernow was visibly upset as the video played and when his mother spoke.

"I just want to say that I love you and miss you, and I just wish you and Justin were coming home," Jessica Saylor said.

Many still wonder why Pribbernow carried out that attack. He didn't elaborate in court today, but did have this to say. "If I could go back eight months ago, I'd stop myself. But I can't."

Pribbernow will get his first chance for parole in 15 years.