A Petersburgh man was found guilty of killing his ex-girlfriend and leaving her body in the woods back in 2022.

Ian J. Hasselwander, 24, was convicted on Wednesday of second-degree murder and strangulation in connection with the disappearance and death of Morgan Bates.

Bates went missing on Feb. 22. Her body was found on Feb, 27, 2022 near Black River Road in Cherry Plain State Park in Stephentown.

Bates was a graduate of Cambridge High School and was known for her love of animals, especially horses.

Rensselaer County District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly said she hoped that this conviction provides some closure for the family.

“He took the life of Morgan Bates, a young woman who was cherished and loved by her family, which was clearly apparent from their presence throughout this prosecution and the trial,” said Rensselaer County District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly in a statement.

Hasselwander faces up to 25 years to life in prison when sentenced on Sept. 18.