Ex-Kauai lieutenant pleads guilty to stealing grant money

By JENNIFER SINCO KELLEHER
Associated Press

HONOLULU (AP) - A former Kauai police lieutenant says she stole federal grant money from the department.

Karen Kapua pleaded guilty Tuesday to embezzling, stealing and misappropriating $25,000 in grants. As part of a plea deal, prosecutors agree to dismiss other charges in an indictment, including money laundering.

Prosecutors say a total of $75,000 was stolen. Defense attorney Brook Hart says his client has paid full restitution.

Kapua says she was commander of the vice unit in December 2014 when she cashed a check and deposited some of it in her personal account. U.S. District Judge J. Michael Seabright says she was entrusted with money that was supposed to be used for operational purposes, such as making undercover drug purchases.

Police Chief Darryl Perry says it's unfortunate this will overshadow her career accomplishments.

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