The Maui News

WAILUKU — A Kahului woman who said she was helping a friend by making copies of betting sheets was given a chance to keep a gambling conviction off her record if she complies with court requirements for the next year.

Margaret Cordeiro, 72, was ordered to pay a $275 fine as part of her sentence imposed Thursday.

Second Circuit Judge Peter Cahill gave her the option of making 100 free deliveries of meals to elderly people instead of the fine. “I’m thinking of another way where she gives back,” Cahill said.

Cordeiro had pleaded no contest to first-degree promoting gambling, with other charges dismissed in exchange for her plea.

She was among 23 people arrested and charged for allegedly participating in the sports betting operation from Oct. 3 to Dec. 21, 2015.

Her attorney, Benjamin Acob, said Cordeiro hadn’t been paid while helping another defendant, Ernest Michael Deponte, who at one time was her boyfriend. He was described as an organizer of the sports betting operation.

“She’s a person of hardly any means,” Acob said.

He said Cordeiro receives Social Security benefits and delivers food to elderly people, earning $2.75 for each plate she delivers for a total of less than $50 a day.

She spends money on her dog and grandson, Acob said. “She’s just happy with where she is in life,” he said.

Judge Cahill said her limited role in the betting operation was confirmed in police reports.

“She was just making copies here,” he said.

She also transported betting sheets.

“I’m not so sure Ms. Cordeiro even understood what she was doing was criminal,” Cahill said. “She was just helping Mike out. This young lady has never been in any trouble. She’s lived a very simple life.”

Cahill said Cordeiro could space out the free deliveries of the meals until the total reached 100.