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Man receives probation and praise from judge

The Maui News

WAILUKU — A judge recognized a Molokai man for the work he did after being released from jail, while placing him on four years’ probation Thursday for methamphetamine possession.

“You’re sort of the epitome of what we want,” 2nd Circuit Judge Jim Rouse said in sentencing Steven Kaholoaa. “You took care of it.”

Kaholoaa, 43, was found with the drug when he was arrested March 8 for shoplifting from Aloha Island Mart in Kahului.

He pleaded guilty in August to fourth-degree theft, second-degree criminal trespassing, third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug and possessing drug paraphernalia and was released from jail on supervision.

Once he was released, he entered a residential drug treatment program on Maui, then moved back to Molokai and reconnected with his family, said Deputy Public Defender Zach Raidmae. He said Kaholoaa was continuing in outpatient drug treatment.

Judge Rouse said Kaholoaa at some point had to talk himself into participating in drug treatment.

“You’re living proof,” Rouse said. “Once you make up your mind to do something, you do it.

“The work is still happening. It’s a four-quarter game. You had a great first quarter. You got to play well in the second, third and fourth. Be proud of yourself.”

Kaholoaa also was sentenced to a 30-day jail term, which he has already served, and was ordered to pay a $10 fine.

He appeared by videoconference from Molokai for the sentencing.

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