Lookout Man In Montco Robbery-Murder Sentenced

NORRISTOWN, Pa. (CBS) - The Philadelphia man who police say acted as the lookout during a home invasion that turned deadly in North Wales (Montgomery County), Pa. last year is headed to state prison for at least 24½ years.

Robert Eatman cut a deal with prosecutors, pleading guilty to third-degree murder and then cooperating with police, testifying against his co-defendants in exchange for a 20-40 year sentence.

Eatman, 35, was the lookout man when two friends killed center city Philadelphia businessman Robert Chae during a robbery gone bad.

The judge tacked on an additional 4½ to nine years for a robbery charge.

In court on Friday, Eatman told the judge he was genuinely sorry, making a stupid mistake, and he was horrified and sickened at the result of the crime.

Eatman is the fourth person to be sentenced in connection with Chae's murder. Two others are still awaiting sentencing and another co-defendant was acquitted of all charges.

Reported by Brad Segall, KYW Newsradio Suburban Bureau Chief.