A Kaneohe Marine who killed a motorist when he crashed a seven-ton military troop transport vehicle head-on into a minivan was sentenced in Circuit Court this morning to one year in jail for third-degree negligent homicide.

However, the judge is letting 21-year-old Pfc. Eric Wycklendt remain free for the next two months to give his lawyer the opportunity to argue for a lesser sentence.

One year is the maximum jail term for third-degree negligent homicide.

Wycklendt had asked for a deferral of his no contest plea, which would have given him the opportunity to clear the charge from his criminal record.

Should Wycklendt ask for a reconsideration of his sentence, Circuit Judge Michael Wilson said he would like his lawyer to present information regarding Wycklendt’s training to operate the seven-ton vehicle, why he was driving the vehicle on Kamehameha Highway, if he will continue to operate such vehicles, and regulations on operating such vehicles on public roadways.

"What continues to be a significant issue in this case is the continuing potential danger to the community for a seven-ton vehicle that may not be operated with proper training," Wilson said.

Wycklendt’s lawyer Noah Fiddler said the then-19-year-old infantryman was driving the troop transport vehicle to the Kahuku Training Area from Kaneohe on Kamehameha Highway Oct. 23, 2008, when he crossed the center line and crashed into Vicki Lynn Norman’s minivan. The 57-year-old mother of six died at the scene.

Witnesses reported seeing Wycklendt have difficulty negotiating his vehicle on the highway, especially around curves, either crossing the center line into the opposing lane of traffic or driving on the shoulder of the roadway, said Brian Kim, deputy city prosecutor.

Fiddler said Wycklendt received 40 hours of training to operate the vehicle including some time on the road.

Wycklendt pleaded no contest last May. Wilson scheduled sentencing for today to allow Wycklendt to complete an overseas deployment.