A Ocean County man whose dog was inside a pickup truck that plunged through the ice on a frozen river has been given more time to decide whether he will represent himself.
Prosecutors say Andrew Mayer of Toms River was arraigned Monday on charges of criminal mischief and animal cruelty.
During the brief hearing, Mayer reiterated his plans to represent himself. But state Superior Court Judge James Blaney advised him to apply for a public defender or hire an attorney.
Blaney subsequently adjourned the case to Dec. 7 so Mayer could to review documents and reconsider getting an attorney.
Authorities have said Mayer's 2-year-old boxer mix, Rolo, was found dead after the truck sank March 1. Another man got out of the truck before it went onto the ice. Neither was injured.
The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.