LIHU‘E — A repeat offender’s record led him to prison over probation Thursday in 5th Circuit Court. Randy William Puulei, 39, of Kilauea, was sentenced in two cases and re-sentenced in a third involving crimes of violence. State Deputy Public
LIHU‘E — A repeat offender’s record led him to prison over probation Thursday in 5th Circuit Court.
Randy William Puulei, 39, of Kilauea, was sentenced in two cases and re-sentenced in a third involving crimes of violence.
State Deputy Public Defender Stephanie Sato said the defendant’s record can’t be disputed. She pointed out that Puulei was at a low point in his life and was involved in a tumultuous relationship.
Puulei has taken responsibility by changing his plea to no contest in the two cases on Sept. 27, Sato said. He wants to do his time, clear his slate and move on with his life, she added.
County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Lisa Arin said that the defendant has failed with probation and parole in the past. She said the state has no option but to request the open prison term.
Valenciano sentenced Puulei to five year’s prison in a case involving two felony charges of abuse of family or household member and unauthorized entry into a dwelling. He received a concurrent five-year term for re-sentencing in a case with charges of first-degree terroristic threat and third-degree assault.
Puulei received one-year concurrent sentences for misdemeanor charges of criminal contempt of court and violating a protective order.
Valenciano said that a person’s record follows them and that for whatever reason, the defendant has not been able to perform satisfactorily on probation or parole. It should not come as a surprise to receive the open term, he added.
