A California man, 65-year-old Richard Lopez has been charged with attempted murder, assault, and abuse by Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen. The charges stem from a September 1, 2022 incident at the Waikoloa Beach Marriot Resort. Lopez is alleged to have stabbed and slashed his 64-year-old girlfriend numerous times to her face and neck.
Responding to a reported stabbing within one of the guest rooms at 9:17 p.m. on September 1, South Kohala Patrol officers observed a female victim with numerous injuries, as well as Lopez who had also sustained visible injuries. The victim and Lopez were transported to the North Hawaii Community Hospital for medical treatment.
During the course of this investigation, police determined that Lopez had stabbed the victim multiple times causing her to sustain life-threatening injuries. She remains hospitalized at this time.
As the Complaint alleges, Lopez was charged with Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, and Abuse of a Family or Household Member. Attempted Murder in the Second Degree carries a penalty of life in prison with the possibility of parole. Prosecutors have also provided notice of an intention to seek a mandatory prison term in accordance with statutory sentencing guidelines in relation to imprisonment for offenses against the elderly.
Lopez made his initial appearance on Tuesday morning in Kona District Court. The Court maintained Lopez’ bail at $300,000.00 and ordered him to return on September 15, 2022, for his preliminary hearing.
The investigation was initiated by South Kohala Patrol, and the felony investigation was handled by Detectives Scott A. Dewey and Brandon Mansur, Area II Juvenile Aid Section, and members of the Area II Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys Kaua Jackson and Kate Perazich.
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.