Puana family: ‘Our losses have been tremendous’

“On behalf of Florence Puana, Gerard Puana and the Puana Ohana:

“We find no joy or comfort in the outcome of the ‘Mailbox Trial.’ Our family’s losses have been tremendous. Florence’s home will never be restored to her. The years of humiliation, heartache, tears and sorrow inflicted on Florence, Gerard and our family won’t be assuaged or erased. Some family relationships have been completely, perhaps forever severed, while others still remain tenuous. Yet through it all, our ohana has survived strong and united. We will eventually recover as we continue to look after each other. We’ll keep the faith with our sights on the future, leave the past in the past, while hoping and praying for happier tomorrows.

“Our family is extremely indebted and extend a sincere mahalo nui loa to the U. S. Department of Justice, their attorneys and investigators; the entire Federal Public Defender’s Office; and our family attorneys for their confidence, tenacity and relentless pursuit of justice. We thank all our extended family, friends, clergy, doctors, nurses and medical personnel who have prayed for us, provided care, kindness, counsel and guidance over the past 7 years. We salute those members of the news media who diligently, objectively and fearlessly reported the facts and stood firm in the truth. We are most grateful as well to all the jurors who took time from their busy lives to serve on this jury; to listen intently to the evidence presented in this difficult and complicated case, and commit themselves to upholding the truth and veracity of the law.

“May God bless each and every one of you.”

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