No contest in burglary cases

LIHUE — A defendant charged with burglary, theft and property damage in three cases changed his plea Monday in 5th Circuit Court.

Blazen Palika Jeffries, 23, of Lihue, pleaded no contest to one misdemeanor and two felony charges. The deal called for drug court, a substance abuse evaluation and other requirements.

In the first case from a crime on Dec. 5, 2013, Jeffries pleaded to felony unauthorized control over a propelled vehicle. A fourth-degree criminal property damage charge is to be dismissed in the deal.

The second case involved another unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle. Jeffries pleaded no contest to the felony charge.

In the third case, Jeffries pleaded no contest to an amended charge of misdemeanor first-degree criminal trespassing that occurred on March 25. The plea deal notes the state will recommend probation with up to a year in jail and restitution to the victims.

Chief Judge Randal Valenciano scheduled the sentencing hearing for Sept. 18.