Ex-Chicago cop gets life in 2012 murder plot

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Former Chicago Police Officer Steve Mandell was sentenced to life for plotting the kidnap, torture and murder of a wealthy suburban businessman.

The federal judge called Mandell "evil and disturbing" as he handed down the life sentence for the murder plot and 5 years for gun possession.

"The court must protect the public from you. It's clear the public needs protection from you," the judge said.

Mandell, 64, was found guilty on six of eight counts against him in February 2014.

The government's case relied heavily on FBI surveillance tapes in which Mandell and his accomplice, Gary Engel, spoke about torturing, killing and dismembering Steve Campbell in 2012.

"I think he can be characterized as a psychopath. He sees himself as a victim," the lead prosecutor said.

Campbell took the stand during the trial.

Mandell's attorneys argued the former police officer was just talking and never planned to carry the murder plot out. Mandell testified at his trial. He accused the government of framing him.

"I am absolutely innocent. The jury never heard the truth," he said.

Engel, a former suburban police officer, was found dead in his jail cell in 2012.