LAS VEGAS -- Judge Jackie Glass laid down the law on Craig Titus and Kelly Ryan.

The two asked for mercy and forgiveness during sentencing Friday for their roles in the death of assistant Melissa James.

The bodybuilding couple, dressed in blue and shackled, sat in court for sentencing.

Titus pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, first-degree kidnapping and arson.

Ryan agreed to first-degree arson and battery with a deadly weapon.

“I know I did not kill but aid once Melissa died. I'm truly, truly sorry. I ask forgiveness," Ryan said.

"There's nothing I can do to bring her back. I'm so sorry," Titus said.

The response from James’ family was blank looks and shaking heads.

Glass said she did not believe Titus.

"He's nothing but a murderer. The tears are crocodile tears," she said.

She even went as far as to question the validity of Titus' guilty plea.

"Did you plea freely and voluntarily given, and did you admit to committing second-degree murder on Melissa James?” Glass asked.

“Yes, maam," Titus said.

James’ family was emotional throughout the sentencing. At one point, it left court to avoid seeing the graphic pictures of James' charred body.

The 28-year-old was found dead in December 2005 -- badly burned in a Jaguar parked near Red Rock Canyon. The deputy district attorney said she was beaten, drugged and killed by Titus and Ryan, but Titus said he was defending his wife.

"I had no idea I was going to react like that, but I did. I'm ashamed and sickened by my actions after Melissa passed away," Titus said.

Glass sentenced Titus to 21 to 55 years in prison. His attorney said he was shocked, because he said he was promised 17 to 55 years.

The hearing stopped, but no amount of arguing would save his client.

Still emotional, Ryan received her sentence of six to 26 years in prison.

Titus' attorney said the judge's ruling opens the door for his client to take back his guilty plea and allow the case to go to trial.

He said they could file the paperwork as early as next week.