ORLANDO, Fla. – A drunken driver convicted of hitting and killing a 2-year-old girl with his car in Orange County was sentenced Friday -- three years after the crash.
John Molnar, who pleaded guilty to DUI manslaughter earlier this year, was sentenced to 16 years in prison.
"I'm haunted and tormented knowing how much their family is suffering," Molnar said.
At his sentencing, Molnar repeatedly apologized for causing the death of 2-year-old Isabella Zepka, who had to be taken off of life support a few days after the 2009 crash. Isabella's brother was also injured in the crash.
Molnar told the judge he had three choices: to continue on with a drug and alcohol problem, end his own life or seek treatment. He said he has remained sober and has been in counseling since the crash.
"I take full responsibility for driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. I recognize I made a monumental mistake and that I caused this accident that has taken the life of such a precious child," Molnar said.
Prosecutors said Molnar's blood alcohol level was well over the legal limit when he ran a stop sign near Turkey Lake Road in Orlando and hit the family's rental car.
Molnar was scheduled for his sentencing in August, but because of a paperwork mix-up involving the pre-sentence investigation, the hearing was abruptly halted and continued.
Molnar remained free under the conditions of his release.
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