HONOLULU -- The driver who ran over former Honolulu Police Chief Mike Nakamura will not have to serve prison time.

Nakamura's message of mercy made a difference as Anthony Pearce II (pictured, right) was sentenced.

The accident in Mililani last year violently ended Nakamura's ability to serve his community. However, he didn't take his anger out on Pearce, the unlicensed driver who hit him in his wheelchair in a crosswalk.

"I don't have any negative feelings against the man. I don't think it was anything personal," Nakamura said.

"There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about the chief and his family," Pearce said.

Pearce was charged with driving without a license and fleeing the accident, although he returned later, confessed and personally apologized.

"By doing all that, I hope that I have been able to bring peace and closure to Chief Nakamura's family," Pearce said.

Pearce's statements in court did not impress the judge on the case.

"The fact that you returned did nothing for the injured victim lying in the roadway," Judge Derrick Chan said.

Chan also said by ignoring prior citations for unlicensed driving, Pearce showed no respect for law. In the end, Pearce's fate was in the hands of the Nakamura family, whose forgiveness meant that Pearce was able to avoid jail.

The judge gave Pearce five years of probation, community service and a $500 fine. The judge first ordered him first to pay nearly $5,000 in restitution.

Nakamura was unable to attend Wednesday's hearing.