LIHU‘E — A Kapa‘a man had felony drug charges dismissed Monday as too much time had passed to bring his case to trial. Paulmert Dasalia, 52, was arrested March 29 and indicted April 13 on two counts of third-degree promotion
LIHU‘E — A Kapa‘a man had felony drug charges dismissed Monday as too much time had passed to bring his case to trial.
Paulmert Dasalia, 52, was arrested March 29 and indicted April 13 on two counts of third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug, two counts of drug paraphernalia and third-degree promotion of a detrimental drug.
Hawai‘i Deputy Attorney General Vince Kanemoto appeared before 5th Circuit Chief Judge Randal Valenciano to explain that communication errors were largely responsible for lag time in transferring the case from county to state prosecution.
Kanemoto took over the case July 26 after County Deputy Prosecutor Jake Delaplane informed the court that the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney had a conflict in the matter.
Kanemoto said his office took the case in late September. By the time files and requested transcripts were transferred, Dasalia’s right to a speedy trial had been violated.
Valenciano granted the oral motion from Deputy Public Defender Christian Enright to dismiss the case. The case was dismissed without prejudice, which allows for charges to be brought again when a legal basis allows.
The judge informed Dasalia that his case was dismissed and that any bail money would be returned. He also told him to remain in contact with his attorney to keep informed on the possibility of any new charges.
