Judge Sentences Woman to 7.5 Years in Prison for Killing Husband

By D.C. Witness Staff - September 6, 2019
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

On Sept. 6, to the dismay of the victim’s family and the prosecuting attorney, a woman was sentenced to less than a decade for killing her husband.

On March 28, a jury found Dianna Lalchan guilty of voluntary manslaughter while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for shooting her 36-year-old husband, Christopher Lalchan, on the 1200 block of 4th Street, SW on March 28, 2013.

“Anything less than the maximum sentence would be allowing her to get away with murder,” the prosecutor told Judge Ronna Lee Beck as she requested the maximum sentence of 15 years for the 34 year-old. Dianna was sentenced to 7.5 years in prison.

Christopher’s family also shared the prosecutor’s sentiment, asking for the maximum sentence. 

“I was privileged to travel 6,000 miles to see my son in a box,” Christopher’s father told the judge  during his victim impact statement.

“She had no right to pull that trigger,” Christopher’s brother said. 

Dianna’s family and friends also shared strong sentiments. 

“This caring and empowering individual’s life is at stake today,” a friend of Dianna’s family told the judge. 

Dianna’s defense attorney, Arthur Ago, told the court he believed his client was not a danger to society and “the court should not impose revenge on [Dianna] in this case.”

During the trial Dianna expressed love for her husband, she reiterated those sentiments when she addressed the judge during the sentencing. 

“I live my life and will continue to live my life to honor Chris,” Dianna said.