LIHU‘E — A second-degree theft charge brought a year sentence to a Hanama‘ulu man, when making meetings might have meant 90 days. Edward James Ferreira III, 40, was arrested June 16 for second-degree theft and pleaded no contest June 28.
LIHU‘E — A second-degree theft charge brought a year sentence to a Hanama‘ulu man, when making meetings might have meant 90 days.
Edward James Ferreira III, 40, was arrested June 16 for second-degree theft and pleaded no contest June 28. He was arrested again on July 9 for loading up a shopping cart full of items and walking out of Walmart without paying.
State Defending Attorney Christian Enright said Ferreira has wanted to take responsibility for his actions since the beginning of the case.
County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Wendel Crutchfield noted that the terms of the plea deal required Ferreira to interview with probation officers and that he missed several appointments.
Ferreira has prior misdemeanor convictions for fourth-degree petty theft, harassment and violating a protection order.
The court’s diagnostic report recommended 90 days but the judge said that was based on the ability to comply with terms. Missing meetings presents a defiant attitude, the judge added, and sentenced Ferreira to a one-year incarceration and five years probation.
Enright said Ferreira is in ill health and that it has played a part in his recent troubles. He recommended against the five-year maximum as excessive.
The judge also ordered an assessment to determine whether substance abuse programs are needed for Ferreira.
Ferreira’s son was allowed to approach the court to say goodbye to his father before his incarceration. The judge said if he can’t fulfill the terms of his sentencing for himself, then he should do it for his boy.
• Tom LaVenture, staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 224) or by emailing tlaventure@ thegardenisland.com.
