Christopher Trautman Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison | Crime

Over a year after hitting four people and killing one with his car, Christopher Trautman is sentenced to 16 years in prison.

It's been a very emotional journey over the past 15 months for the victims and their family and friends.    

Many are finding relief after seeing Trautman's final sentencing.

"There's really no joy in seeing a verdict. It's a necessary part of the process, but when we go home, Austin's still not there and never will be," father Hilary Melville says.

It's a decision that brings little comfort to the Melville family.

In January Trautman was found guilty of all 21 counts.

He now has a prison sentence of 192 months.

"I wouldn't say there's relief. I'm glad to have it out of the way and put it behind us," Melville says.

"This really is the best we could have hope for," Prosecuting Attorney Eric Woodford says.

Woodford was pleased that the judge issued the maximum penalty.

With such a unique case, he's glad she took the time to analyze every angle.

"Really what's unique about this case is the reckless way which defendant drove down Broadway. It was a busy time of day on the busy street without regard for the lives of the people on that roadway. That's really what makes this case unique," Woodford explains.

Before issuing a sentence, the judge allowed Trautman to share a few words.

He told the court that he wished he could blame the entire thing on drugs and alcohol, but he takes full responsibility for his actions.

Trautman also apologized to everyone he hurt especially the family of Austin Melville.

It's a family still dealing with the loss of their son.

"If there's one real important thing that we think comes out of this verdict is that people understand how serious and offensive drinking and driving can be," Melville explains.

Christopher Trautman was taken into custody at the end of Thursdays trial.

He will receive credit for the 460 days he's already spent in jail.

That time will count towards his 16 year prison sentence.