Greig didn't show emotion during sentencing

BOSTON (WHDH) -- Catherine Greig has never shown much emotion and she didn’t show any Tuesday when she was sentenced to eight years in federal prison for protecting James “Whitey” Bulger.

The judge told Greig she chose to harbor Bulger and could have left him but didn’t. The judge was troubled by the amount of money and weapons stashed in their California apartment, where Greig and Bulger were arrested last year after having been on the run for 16 years.

Greig’s attorney said if Greig, 61, could be with Bulger right now she would be.

“She was and is in love with Mr. Bulger and she’s certainly a person who does not regret what she did in living her life with -- as they say he’s the love of her life and she stands by him,” said Kevin Reddington, Greig’s attorney.

U.S. Attorney Carmen Ortiz said just because you love someone that doesn’t mean you can break the law. She said the sentence is significant and sends a message to everyone.

“This is not a romantic saga. This is a serious case where Catherine Greig committed serious crimes. She helped and protected and concealed a fugitive, Whitey Bulger, who was wanted for over 16 years, and wanted allegedly for running a criminal enterprise and being involved in 19 murders,” said Ortiz.

Greig’s twin sister, who was flustered by the media leaving court Tuesday, said she supports her sister.

“I’m disappointed and I love my sister and I’ll always be behind her. That’s all I have to say,” said Margaret McCusker, Greig’s sister.

Greig was given the opportunity to address the court during sentencing, but she declined.

Greig was taken by van from South Boston and brought to a detention center in Rhode Island. Her final destination is not yet known.