KAILUA-KONA — A 21-year-old Kona man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for a fatal 2022 traffic collision that killed 63-year-old Rhonda Freedman. Trevor Shoemaker-Hassey received the maximum penalty for manslaughter last Thursday in Kona Circuit Court. He was also ordered to pay $13,526.14 in restitution.
Collision Details
The deadly crash occurred on July 17, 2022, near the intersection of Mamalahoa Highway and Akina Place in Kona. Shoemaker-Hassey was driving a Nissan Rogue with a minor-aged female passenger. According to police reports, the passenger stated that Shoemaker-Hassey had consumed alcohol and taken Xanax before the collision.
A breathalyzer screening revealed a breath alcohol concentration of .071. Data from the vehicle’s event recorder showed Shoemaker-Hassey was traveling at 60 mph in a 45-mph zone and turned into the oncoming lane, before colliding with Freedman’s Nissan Versa. Freedman died as a result of the crash.
Legal Proceedings
Shoemaker-Hassey pleaded “no contest” to manslaughter on August 12, 2024. Freedman’s family provided emotional input to the court during a November 4, 2024, hearing, sharing the profound impact of her loss. The court then continued the hearing to December 5 to finalize restitution before sentencing Shoemaker-Hassey to 20 years in prison.
Manslaughter, a Class A felony in Hawai‘i, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years.
Investigation
The case was initiated by Kona Patrol. Lieutenant Erich Jackson, who was off duty at the time, was the first officer to arrive on the scene and assisted in securing the area.
The felony investigation was led by Detective Len Hamakado of the Area II Criminal Investigation Section and Sergeant Jason Foxworthy of Puna Patrol, who was previously with the Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit. Their investigation included data from the event recorder, witness statements, and breathalyzer results.
The case was prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Chase Murray.
Prosecutor’s Statement
“Impaired and distracted driving remains one of the greatest public safety concerns on Hawai‘i Island,” said Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Freedman ‘ohana, and we hope this result offers them some sense of closure. This outcome reflects the dedication of our police, prosecutors, and victim advocates.”
A Stark Reminder
Authorities continue to warn against the dangers of impaired and distracted driving. Shoemaker-Hassey’s actions and their devastating consequences highlight the need for accountability and road safety awareness..
