John F. Gustites was sentenced to the maximum allowed by law for killing his son, John A., in September 2024.
A Schuylkill County jury convicted Gustites, of East Union Township, of third-degree murder in June. He shot his son to death during an argument over the family vehicle.
In handing down a sentence of 20-40 years in state prison, Schuylkill County Judge Christopher Hobbs told Gustites Monday morning, “The day you killed your son, you had many options.”
Hobbs said that the “absolute maximum punishment is necessary” when sending Gustites away today.
When given a chance to speak at his sentencing hearing inside Courtroom 7 at Schuylkill County Courthouse, Gustites refused. He simply shook his head slowly.
Hobbs said that Gustites’ actions showed “a complete lack of judgement and lack of respect.”
“You made a choice. You have shown absolutely no remorse, no contrition,” Hobbs said.
At Monday’s hearing, the victim’s aunt, Kim Furedi, testified and asked that Hobbs deliver the sentence he did.
Furedi called the killer Gustites “the worst kind of father.”
She said her nephew – whom she referred to as “Little Johnny” – “had his own problems but did not deserve to die over an insignificant argument.”
Furedi added that this was a case of “failed fatherhood.”
Gustites’ attorney, Kent Watkins, asked Furedi if she got along with the murderer. She indicated they have not gotten along for some time.
“You’re saying this in a vengeful way,” Watkins said.
Furedi responded, “No, I am stating fact.”
Subscribe to Coal Region Canary
Get email updates from Coal Region Canary by becoming a subscriber today. Just enter your email address below to get started!Support Coal Region Canary
Like our reporting and want to support truly local news in Schuylkill County? Your small donations help. For as little as $5, your contribution will allow us to cover more news that directly affects you. Consider donating today by hitting the big yellow button below ...