The family of a man killed by a drunk driver will have to wait a bit longer for justice to be served after a judge postponed sentencing Tuesday.
Thomas Mallin pleaded guilty in January to manslaughter, driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident. In 2005, Mallin was driving drunk when he struck and killed William Meier.
As part of Mallin's plea deal, in which he claimed he was mentally ill, Judge Meryl Berkowitz said he'd be sentenced to five years probation if he checked into a psychiatric hospital.
Although Berkowitz didn't say why she delayed Mallin's sentencing, the victim's mother has a theory: "He's not in a psychiatric facility and there has to be something about that," Maureen Meier said.
Meier said someone can only check into an psychological institution if there's something psychologically wrong with you, and Mallin's case doesn't apply. She said she hopes Berkowitz will consider a stronger punishment for taking her son's life.
Mallin's attorney didn't return calls for comment.
Sentencing has been rescheduled for May 17.