MOUNT HOLLY, N.J. (AP/ 1010 WINS) -- A 20-year-old Staten Island man has admitted killing his former girlfriend and burying her body in a shallow grave in New Jersey's Pine Barrens.
Thomas Paolino pleaded guilty Thursday to aggravated manslaughter and hindering apprehension.
Burlington County prosecutors dropped murder charges as part of a plea agreement.
Under the deal, he faces 23 1/2 years in state prison -- 20 without parole. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 18.
He's been in jail since his arrest more than a year ago.
Hikers discovered the body of 19-year-old Jessica Tush in the Wharton State Forest in April 2008. She was also from Staten Island.
Authorities said she died of strangulation and sharp force injuries to the neck.
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