State v. Kona (Slip Opinion)

{¶ 1} In this case, we hold that when in accordance with the requirements of a pretrial diversion program, a noncitizen defendant admits sufficient facts to warrant a finding of guilt, the trial court must provide to the defendant the advisement contained in R.C. 2943.031(A) that the admission of guilt may affect his or her immigration status, i.e., that it “may have the consequences of deportation, exclusion from admission to the United States, or denial of naturalization pursuant to the laws of the United States.”

Factual and Procedural Background

{¶ 2} Defendant-appellant, Issa Kona, is not…