LIHU‘E — A Kapa‘a man said he was ready to face the music for his actions and accept whatever the court handed down to him. That sentence was five-year’s in jail on Thursday from Chief Judge Randal Valenciano of the
LIHU‘E — A Kapa‘a man said he was ready to face the music for his actions and accept whatever the court handed down to him.
That sentence was five-year’s in jail on Thursday from Chief Judge Randal Valenciano of the 5th Circuit. The sentence came down on four cases involving theft, drugs and violent crimes.
Kamani L. Tangalin, 25, apologized to the court, his family and the community. He said life has changed now that he has accepted responsibility for his actions and is on the right track to turn himself around.
A Grand Jury entered a 14-count indictment against Tangalin last July, that were based on a March arrest on four counts of stealing a credit card, purchasing items with it and forging signatures.
Additional charges of identity theft, unauthorized possession of confidential personal information. Tangalin entered a change of plea on Nov. 15.
Shauna Cahill represented Tangalin on the central charges in the four cases, while Rosa Flores and Dena Renti Cruz stood by the defendant on charges of resisting arrest, assault on a police officer, trespassing, burglary, and possession of burglars tools.
The attorneys said Tangalin has a serious addiction and that early in his incarceration life was difficult. They said that should not weigh against him given the progress he has made in therapy and rehabilitation.
Valenciano said it was good that Tangalin has found a way out but that it was sad that it had to result from incarceration first.
He said that as a young man, Tangalin would have to account for his criminal past. He said substance abuse is a voluntary action that resulted in his home burglary to steal a purse, food and other items while the couple was sleeping.
Tangalin received five-year jail terms for credit card theft, two second-degree burglaries, and second-degree theft. He will serve 30 days for the assault of a police officer.
A mandatory one-year and eight months must be served before Tangalin is eligible for parole. He must also pay $4,180.25 in restitution.
• Tom LaVenture, staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 224) or tlaventure@thegardenisland.com.
