WAILUKU >> Attorneys have made their closing arguments in the case of a Hawaii resident accused of harassing two teenagers earlier this year at a McDonald’s.
The Maui News reported Tuesday that 49-year-old Antonio Gimbernat’s attorney agreed with prosecutors that his client’s speech was offensive, but said his words didn’t amount to a crime. The prosecutor, however, says Gimbernat yelled words that “were so offensive it created fear, shock and a genuine concern that the defendant was going to hurt” the teenagers.
Gimbernat is accused of yelling a racist slur at one of the teens, who is African-American. He is accused of telling the teen he shouldn’t be with a white girl.
Gimbernat pleaded not guilty to harassment and disorderly conduct.
Wailuku Judge Kelsey Kawano is scheduled to rule on Dec. 15.
Kauai
Veterans Cemetery Hall to close during renovations
Renovations begin Monday at the Kauai Veterans Cemetery Hall.
The Department of Parks and Recreation said in a news release that the hall will be closed and access to the columbarium may be limited during construction. However, the cemetery will remain accessible, officials said.
The maintenance building will be used by the public to make arrangements for services through the state Office of Veterans’ Services.
The renovation project, expected to be completed by April, includes replacing doors and windows, repairing tiles and the entire roof, replacing the electrical system, and concrete repairs.
Work is funded through a state Legislature appropriation of $1.1 million. For more information, call 241-4460 or the state Office of Veterans’ Services, 241-3348.
