A Nova Scotia man has been sentenced to life in prison for the 2007 murder of a man in New York state.

A judge in Plattsburgh, N.Y., handed down Glen Race's sentence on Thursday afternoon.

Race, of Dartmouth, N.S., had faced a minimum 25 years to life in prison for killing Darcy Manor in Mooers, N.Y., in May 2007. He is ineligible for parole.

The prosecution alleged during the trial that Race shot Manor, 35, in the back at a secluded hunting lodge.

Prior to his conviction, Race told the judge he was innocent.

"I can clearly say by true wisdom and reality without doubt, I'm innocent and can do no wrong," said Race.

The victim's mother read an impact statement during the hearing.

"As I have watched your actions through these past 20 months, I have never seen any sign of remorse or grief for what you have done," said Jane Manor.

"You are a disgrace to mankind and my hope is you will never be free to harm another human being, including your own family and friends."

Race's Canadian lawyer, Joel Pink, said the conviction will be appealed. Race's American lawyer should have used an insanity defence because his client is schizophrenic, Pink said.

"The argument that [the U.S. lawyer] came up with just didn't make sense. He should have tried to put the not criminally responsible defence before that judge. My understanding is the family is now looking for a lawyer in New York to take on the appeal."

With files from the Canadian Press