Man who killed child to be released from jail

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WSVN) -- A family is on a mission to try and keep the hit and run driver who took the life of their loved one behind bars.

Family members of Nicole Walker, who would have been 26 had she been alive today, were in tears as they left the Broward County Courtroom Thursday afternoon.

Kenneth Pierce, the man convicted in the death Walker back in 1992, is scheduled to be released from prison on Monday, just 20 years into his 40-year sentence. "How could Florida do this?" said the victim's Mother Suzanne Walker.

Pierce was convicted after running over Nicole and leaving the scene. Two other girls were also injured. Pierce, who was labeled a habitual offender, was then sentenced to 40 years behind bars.

The Walker family was told Pierce would serve at least 30 years. "More than likely, he's going to walk on Monday. What I would tell people in South Florida is watch out," said Suzanne.

On Thursday a judge assigned Pierce a public defender since his release is scheduled for Monday.

The family said if he's out of jail he would still be a danger to the public. "Watch your children because that man will get behind the wheel, and he will have a car and do it again," said Suzanne.

The case will continue on Friday, where a judge will consider time served and good behavior behind bars.

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