David Desebel Kapileo
But Judge Camacho gave Kapileo 646 days’ credit for time served, and he will be eligible for parole after serving eight years of his sentence.
Kapileo was also ordered to pay restitution to the wife of the victim in the amount of $16,521. In addition, he will pay $25 in court costs.
Judge Camacho ordered Kapileo to start serving his sentence immediately.
On Jan. 30, 2019, Kapileo pleaded guilty to homicide by vehicle and reckless driving.
At the sentencing hearing, Kapileo was represented by Assistant Public Defender Jean Nogues, while Assistant Attorney General Erin Toolan appeared for the government.
Kapileo asked the court to accept the plea agreement as stipulated.
Judge Camacho granted the request and, as provided in the plea agreement, the charge of reckless driving was dismissed.
Kapileo was the driver of a vehicle that fatally struck a 38-year-old Chinese national on April 1, 2018 at the intersection of Chalan Pale Arnold and As Mahetog.
Kapileo was initially charged with speeding, reckless driving, driving under the influence of alcohol, and homicide by vehicle.
An amended information was filed by the government on Dec. 20, 2018.
Kapileo told the court that he was very intoxicated that night and had no recollection of hitting the victim, but he said he is taking responsibility for his action.
The factual basis for the plea stated that on or about April 1, 2018, at past 6 p.m., Kapileo did unlawfully and unintentionally cause the death of Shanghai Gao while driving under the influence of alcohol, and/or while driving recklessly; and/or while speeding.
A witness told police that the driver of the vehicle — a green SUV — did not stop after hitting the victim who sustained several severe injuries. The witness was able to get the full license plate number, and provided a description of the driver.
Kapileo’s previous criminal record includes fatally shooting his mother with a gun at their residence in Garapan in December 1992.
