WAILUKU (AP) — A Maui man convicted of attempting to sell methamphetamine and marijuana out of his van has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.
WAILUKU (AP) — A Maui man convicted of attempting to sell methamphetamine and marijuana out of his van has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Harold Hodges, 61, was sentenced Friday on several charges, including promotion of a dangerous drug and possessing drug paraphernalia, The Maui News reported.
Hodges was arrested in December 2015 after police pulled him over and searched his van. Authorities say they found more than 2 grams of meth, 55 grams of marijuana and 42 oxycodone pills inside the vehicle. They also claimed to find a large gallon-sized plastic bag containing several empty packets, two digital gram scales and nearly $4,000 in cash.
In handing down Hodges’ sentence, Judge Rhonda Loo cited his lengthy criminal history. She said Hodges has 61 arrests and 11 convictions.
Hodges, who represented himself during trial, argued in support of the sale of illegal drugs, saying it helps support the U.S. economy.
Deputy Prosecutor Jeffery Temas said Hodges did not learn from his previous convictions for trying to sell drugs and possessing them.
He “wants all the protections of being an American, (but) he doesn’t want the responsibility of being a good American,” Temas said.
Hodges has indicated he plans to appeal.