As the Complaint alleges, Asagra, who has four prior felony convictions, was charged with Murder in the Second Degree for causing the death of Joey Richmond and Arson in the First Degree for setting fire to a BMW motor vehicle. Prosecutors further alleged that Defendant is a persistent offender, based on his prior felony convictions, and if convicted as charged of the Murder in the Second Degree offense, may be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Asagra made his initial appearance on Friday in Kona District Court. In addition to the Criminal Complaint, Prosecutors filed a motion to detain Asagra without bail as he was already out of custody on a bail bond on unrelated matters at the time of the alleged offenses.

Judge Robert Crudele maintained Asagra’s bail at $550,000.00 and ordered him to appear for his preliminary hearing and hearing on the State’s motion on June 21, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. in Kona District Court.

The investigation was handled by Detective Kimmerlyn Makuakane-Jarrell of the Area II Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys Ka‘uanoe Jackson and Katherine Perazich.

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 in East Hawai‘i or (808) 329-8181 in West Hawai‘i.