A busy Thursday in 5th Circuit Court

LIHU‘E — It was a busy Thursday in the 5th Circuit courtroom of Chief Judge Randal Valenciano.

Brandon Kainoa Santarone, 31, of Anahola, declined the plea deal offer from the state regarding his abuse of family or household member charge. His jury trial is scheduled for Dec. 17 with Judge Trudy Senda presiding in Valenciano’s absence.

Corey Keone Duarte, 41, of Hanama‘ulu, had his probation revoked and received a 90-day jail sentence in addition to time already served.

Duarte was serving a one-year probation for first-degree criminal trespass, fourth-degree theft and simple trespassing from a July 2011 case. He admitted to violating his probation by using marijuana and methamphetamine and not maintaining employment or paying court fees.

Rick Comstock, 59, of Lihu‘e, was sentenced to a two-year probation and three days of jail for a misdemeanor abuse of family or household member charge. He pleaded no contest to the charge on July 31, which stems from an April 14 incident.

Sean L.K. Cruz-Kawanuwai appeared for sentencing but instead decided to withdraw his guilty plea to abuse of family or household member, third-degree criminal property damage, second-degree robbery and second-degree theft. The judge will consider a motion on Nov. 29 to withdraw the plea or continue with sentencing.

Brandon Pagala, 28, of Lihu‘e, failed to show for a hearing to consider motion prior to his trial next week on charges of second-degree theft.

• Tom LaVenture, staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 224) or tlaventure@thegardenisland.com.