A judge handed down a 25-month sentence Wednesday to a man who threatened to kill the families of two retired pro-athletes.

Emotions ran high in a Multnomah County courtroom Wednesday as Bobby Hayes, 42, stood before the judge.

Hayes pleaded guilty last Friday to felony theft by extortion and attempted theft by extortion.

Hayes cried as he asked for forgiveness from the families of former NFL defensive back Anthony Newman and former NBA guard Terrell Brandon.Under a plea agreement, prosecutors asked for a twenty five month prison term for writing letters demanding $10,000from each family.

One of the letters went to the home of Newman's mother, Reba Newman.

In one of the letters addressed to "NFL Mom,” Hayes wrote:

"U don't know me, but I know U," it read. "I want 10K in cash in a black bag set next to your garage door Friday night. If you tell the police and try to be a hero you will be responsible for the murder of your whole family."

"It was a terrible decision; something that I wouldn't wish on anybody and I just hope they can find it in their heart to forgive me," Hayes said to Multnomah County judge Stephen Bushong.

In an unexpected move, Newman told the court she forgives Hayes. She asked Judge Bushong for a lighter sentence.

"I would like to see him just get probation and stay…to take care of them kids," said Newman.

Judge Stephen Bushong said Hayes will have to pay the price for his conduct.

"I am going to now impose the sentence that's recommended in the plea petition," Judge Bushong told the court.

"My life had changed completely. Not knowing who it was, who I was dealing with and how many people were involved," said Reba Newman.

"He [Hayes] made a mistake for what he's done and now his children won't have a father around for a couple years. That's a sad thing because I think he knows what he did was wrong," said Anthony Newman.