Kristopher Guenther found guilty of murdering Lacey Jones Mcknight

There were audible sobs in a Calgary courtroom this morning as Kristopher Guenther was found guilty of first-degree-murder for killing his former fiance.

• Kristopher Guenther's fate in judge's hands as murder trial wraps up

Lacey JonesMcknight was strangled on Oct. 25, 2012, after she and Guenthergot into an argument when she discovered he was cheating on her.

Justice AllanMacleod read his decision Friday morning to a courtroom packed with the victims friends and family.

Guenther admitted to killing JonesMcknight, but the issue was whether he forcibly confined her during the act, making it first-degreemurder.

The court heard the 32-year-oldhad confined JonesMcknight during the murder by taping her hands, feet and mouth and putting a plastic bag over her head.

His lawyer argued the evidence of confinementtape and rope found on her body and in his carwas used for consensual sex.

Macleod said he didn't believe Guenther's version of events, calling his testimony "contrived."Parts of Guenther's story were "absolutely ludicrous," according to Macleod.

Family members attend grave

Outside the courtroom, the victim's motherdescribed her mood as "exuberant."

Shelly Jones hadbeen fighting for the first-degree murder charge against Guenther. Itwas upgradedfrom second-degree murdera year after her death.

Jones has also filed a complaint with Calgary's police commission, claiming officers did not follow proper domestic violence protocols. She was told the complaint would be dealt with after the trial wrapped up.

• Lacey Jones Mcknight's family says system 'failed' her

Family and friends gathered at Jones Mcknight's grave Friday afternoon after the verdict came down.

A first-degree murder conviction comes with an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for at least 25 years.

A sentencing date will be set in April so that victim impact statements can be prepared.