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Man who shot at police gets life sentence

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WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- A South Florida man who got into a shootout with police because he was afraid of going back to prison will now be incarcerated for the rest of his life.

The Palm Beach Post reports that a judge gave 28-year-old Michael Wallach 12 life sentences Thursday. He was convicted last week of multiple counts of attempted first-degree murder of law enforcement officers and other charges.

Authorities say Wallach tried to bolt in June 2012 instead of turning himself in to serve a five-year sentence for aggravated battery. He had previously served 21 months for burglary and was afraid to go back.

Authorities say Wallach stole two cars while on the run. He shot at several police officers and a Palm Beach County sheriff's helicopter before being shot and wounded himself.