An Orange County man accused of hiring hit men to murder his wife so he could avoid a costly divorce has been convicted of murder.

A district attorney's statement Friday says 61-year-old Magdi Girgis (MOG'-dee GURR-ghiss) of Westminster has been found guilty in the 2004 killing.

A few days before her death, 55-year-old Ariet (AHR'-ee-et) Girgis had testified in a domestic violence case against her husband, saying her marriage was "miserable." He was convicted on domestic violence charges after her death.

Two suspects allegedly entered the victim's home in Sept. 2004 and murdered her with a sharp object.

Prosecutors say the killer and a middleman involved in the contract slaying remain at large.

A third person, Anthony Edward Bridget, was arrested last year and faces charges including conspiracy and murder.