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SMITHLAND, Ky. (AP) - Attorneys have given closing arguments over whether a western Kentucky man who pleaded guilty to killing three children in 2008 should receive the death penalty.

The prosecutor and an attorney for Kevin Wayne Dunlap presented their arguments Wednesday during the trial's sentencing phase. Dunlap pleaded guilty to three counts of murder, assault, rape and arson among other charges on Feb. 9.

Commonwealth's Attorney G.L. Ovey told the jury to sentence Dunlap to death. He says Dunlap "senselessly" took the lives of three Trigg County children on Oct. 15, 2008.

Dunlap's attorney, James Gibson, argued that Dunlap has mental health issues. He says Dunlap's friends and family want the jury to spare his life.

The jury can recommend from 20 years in prison to the death penalty.

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