Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Pahoa man, 34-year-old Jordan Maka’ala Valente Kaneshiro, was sentenced to serve a ten (10) year prison term in relation to attempted distribution of methamphetamine, possession of multiple dangerous drugs, and the prohibited possession of a shotgun. As a part of the agreement with Prosecutors, Kaneshiro will serve a mandatory minimum term of prison, without the possibility of probation or parole, of six (6) years and eight (8) months.
On April 6, 2022, Kaneshiro pleaded Guilty to seven (7) felony offenses including three counts of Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree (possession of over an eight of an ounce each of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine), two counts of Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Third Degree (possession of any amount of fentanyl), and a single count each of Ownership of Possession of Firearm (prohibited based on prior felony conviction) and Attempted Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree (attempted distribution of any amount of methamphetamine).
“Today’s sentencing sends a clear message to those who distribute dangerous narcotics, including methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl, and poison our community, that there will be consequences for your actions,” said Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen. “We encourage members of the public to report criminal and drug activity in their neighborhoods. It’s time that law enforcement, prosecutors, and our community unite to work together to take back Hawai‘i Island and make it a safer and better place to live.”
The investigation was handled by the Area I Vice Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Elyssa Correia Keltner.
The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney remains dedicated to the pursuit of justice with integrity and commitment. Anyone having information concerning illegal narcotics distribution should call the Hawai‘i Police Department Vice Section in East Hawai‘i at (808) 961-2258 or in West Hawai‘i at (808) 326-4646 Ext. 226, or Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.
