Maui judge sentences admitted thief to drug rehab

WAILUKU, Maui >> A judge has ordered a Kula man to complete a drug treatment program for a battery of crimes including the theft of ATMs and escaping from jail guards at a funeral last year.

Harry Kahaleauki was sentenced Friday to complete a 30-month program for substance abuse and was placed on five years’ probation.

Circuit Judge Richard Bissen says the sentence is “almost an unbelievable deal.”

Kahaleauki pleaded no contest to the charges, which include theft and drug-related crimes.

Kahaleauki will have 32 convictions in three criminal cases on his record.

The Maui News reports prosecutors supported the agreement, saying it was positive Kahaleauki is addressing his drug addiction.

Deputy Public Defender Greg Ball says Kahaleauki could face 80 years in prison if he doesn’t complete his treatment.