WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — The man convicted of killing abortion provider George Tiller says he knew the consequences and has no regrets for his actions because the lives of some unborn children were likely saved.

Scott Roeder called The Associated Press Wednesday following a hearing in which he received a more lenient sentence requiring him to serve at least 25 years of a life sentence before becoming eligible for parole.

He was also sentenced to an additional two years for aggravated assault.

Roeder says he was shocked that prosecutors withdrew their request that he serve at least 50 years before parole eligibility. The decision came days before a jury was to hear the issue.

He says he is glad his sentence was reduced but he was looking forward to being a voice for the unborn.