FREDERICK, Md. (AP) - A Knoxville man is serving 18 months in the Frederick County jail for fatally shooting his brother after confronting him about his loud, drunken behavior.

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Circuit Judge G. Edward Dwyer cited their mother's plea for leniency in sentencing 45-year-old Allen Nichols Thursday.

He was convicted of manslaughter in June as part of a plea agreement in the death of 43-year-old Terry Nichols.

Witnesses told police the argument began when Allen was awakened by his brother's noisy behavior.

Family members say Terry dared his older brother to pull the trigger.
Allen Nichols claimed he didn't believe the gun was loaded,