The presenter, famed as the host of the Food Network’s healthy cooking show Calorie Commando, was arrested in California in May (10) on suspicion of solicitation to commit murder after he was caught out during a reported undercover operation.
According to TMZ.com, Cruz’s wife Jennifer Campbell wanted to die because she could not have kids but refused to take her own life due to religious beliefs.
The TV star allegedly plotted to hire three homeless men to kill his wife as an act of mercy and had planned to then take his own life.
Cruz initially pleaded not guilty, but he struck a deal with prosecutors in October (10) allowing him to plead no contest.
He was handed the nine-year sentence by a Los Angeles Superior Court judge on Monday (13Dec10).
One count of attempted murder was dropped as part of the plea settlement, according to prosecutors.
