Judge Mallet, the Supreme Court justice who is on trial for killing his stepdaughter and her family in 2011, has been pronounced dead at his home in Florida.
He was 68.
Judge Mallet’s attorney did not immediately respond to a request for comment from ABC News.
In a statement released Friday, Mallet said, “I am deeply saddened and heartbroken by this news.
It’s an extremely difficult time for me, my family and our community.
My family and I have asked the Florida State Bar for any information they may have about my health and well-being.
My office will also continue to cooperate with the State Bar and law enforcement officials as necessary.”
In his statement, Mallett said that he has been receiving medical treatment and will continue to do so.
“Judge Mallets health is the subject of a criminal investigation and is being handled by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement,” the statement read.
The attorney added that his family is waiting for news about the investigation to determine the cause of death.
He said he will be remembered as a “wonderful and loving man” who was “always prepared to listen to all sides of any matter.”
“I was a dedicated, intelligent, hardworking and hard-working attorney who was never one to show emotion or weakness, but rather a strong advocate for all of my clients,” Mallet wrote.
“I will be deeply missed by my colleagues, friends and family, and I am committed to doing everything I can to help this family through this difficult time.”
He added that he would also miss his family and will be looking for new opportunities in his life.
“I am grateful to be a part of the community, and will miss the people and their wonderful family that I have always loved and respected,” Mallett wrote.
