A Democratic state House candidate said Thursday that his improper use of a state computer four years ago should not disqualify him from public office.

John Mizuno, who is running in House District 30 (Moanalua, Kalihi Valley), was indicted in 2002 on a felony count of unauthorized computer use. Mizuno was an investigator for the state Department of Human Services when he improperly used a state computer to provide an address for a friend involved in a domestic situation.

The court granted Mizuno's deferred acceptance of a no-contest plea, and he received five years probation. He also had to write a letter of apology to the woman involved in the domestic situation. Mizuno asked the court for an early end to his probation and it was awarded in May. His record will be expunged next May.

Mizuno, an aide to retiring state Rep. Dennis Arakaki, D-30th (Moanalua, Kalihi Valley), is facing state business information director Rick Manayan, a Republican, in November. Mizuno's legal trouble was first reported Wednesday by KITV.

"I have not tried to hide from this incident," Mizuno said in a statement. "Instead, I have tried to use the experience to become a more responsible citizen and to continue to give back to the community by serving the public, especially in the area of human services."