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Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a grand jury returned an indictment charging a Hilo man, 42 year-old Michael Kawaha, for a 2018 incident in Panaewa.
Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a grand jury returned an indictment charging a Hilo man, 42 year-old Michael Kawaha, for a 2018 incident in Panaewa.On Tuesday, Kawaha made his initial appearance in Hilo Circuit Court. Judge Peter Kubota granted Kawaha’s request to reduce his bail from $50,000.00 to $10,000.00 over Prosecutor’s objections.
As the Indictment alleges, Kawaha was charged with two counts of Sexual Assault in the Second Degree. Sexual Assault in the Second Degree is a class B felony offense which carries a maximum penalty of ten (10) years in prison.
The investigation was handled by Det. Gavin Kagimoto of the Area 1 Juvenile Aid Section and Sgt. Matthew Kaaihue, Dispatch Section, formerly of the Area I Juvenile Aid Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Sylvia Wan.
The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney remains dedicated to the pursuit of justice with integrity and commitment. Anyone having information to assist local law enforcement should call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.