Judge brought to tears at Albany murder sentencing

An Albany man was sentenced to 23 years to life in prison on Wednesday for killing a man in Albany in 2021. The emotional testimony brought the judge to tears as he delivered his ultimate decision.

Nicholas Higgins, 30, was convicted of second-degree murder at a jury trial in July.

Higgins shot and killed Uizaie Brigman on Jan. 11, 2021 at the corner of Ontario Street and Hamilton Street.

The victim’s mother, Latisha Brigman, told the court that she will miss her son every day of her life. Her son was shot 17 times and that has left a scar in her mind.

“I hope others use this sentencing as a cautionary tale about how many lives will forever be impacted because of this horrific and cruel crime,” she said in a news release.

The victim’s significant other, Najalah Harvey said now she has to raise their 6-year-old daughter alone.

“There is not a day that goes by when she doesn’t ask about her dad,” she said.

Judge Thomas Marcelle said Higgins has not taken responsibility or said he is sorry for his crime.

“Redemption and rehabilitation can’t possibly happen, until there is accountability and remorse,” he said.