Guaman found competent to stand trial

WORCESTER, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- It was a decision one mother has been waiting to hear for almost two years. The man accused of killing her son in a drunk driving accident was found competent enough to stand trial.     

A judge ruled Tuesday Nicolas Guaman is able to assist in his own defense. The illegal immigrant was charged in 2011 for the drunk driving crash that killed 23-year-old Matthew Denice.

The issue of his competency arose as the Ecuadorian native speaks a language that is rare in the United States. His defense worried he would not understand the legal process, but Guaman has since completed classes with a law professor paid for by the court to educate him.

And though this was what Denice's family had hoped for, it still won't bring Matthew back.

"It's been two years and three months. It's draining but you know, whether we are going through this or not, everyday there's a big hole in my heart and in my life," said Maureen Maloney, Denice's mother.

Denice's death prompted many to question why the state was not part of the secure communities program at that time. That program shares fingerprints and information between local authorities and immigration and customs enforcement.

Cox Media Group