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Champion arm wrestler convicted in wife's death

WORCESTER (AP) - A champion arm wrestler from Massachusetts has been convicted in the death of his wife, who jumped out of a window to escape him.

Forty-one-year-old Allen Stilkey of Worcester was convicted Monday of manslaughter. His wife, Lisa, jumped from a second-floor window of their home in February during what authorities said was a violent argument.

>>Let it Rip: Champion arm wrestler convicted in wife's death

Prosecutors say Stilkey threatened to kill his wife first. They say he had recently taken out a $250,000 life insurance policy on her.

Stilkey's lawyer maintains his client was not responsible for his wife's death.

The Telegram & Gazette reports that both sides agree that the couple were having marital and financial problems, and the fight began after they had been drinking heavily.

Stilkey, who took first place in his weight class at the American Armsport Association's 2010 national championships, faces sentencing Friday.