Posted on: Saturday, December 15, 2001

Mirikitani seeks public defender for appeal

Associated Press

Saying he is virtually broke, former Honolulu city councilman Andy Mirikitani has asked for a public defender as he appeals his federal court conviction.

Mirikitani said he couldn't even pay the docketing fees when he filed his notice of appeal yesterday.

He said he and his new wife, Sharron Bynum, have only $100 between them.

Mirikitani was sentenced Dec. 6 to four years and three months in prison in connection with a kickback scheme. Bynum was sentenced to one year and nine months in prison for aiding and abetting him. They are to report to separate prisons Jan 17.

The two were married Nov. 30, the day before he retired from the council.

Mirikitani said he owes about $340,000 to his defense attorney, John Edmunds, who refuses to represent him further.

The federal court will decide whether Mirikitani qualifies for a public defender.