Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a grand jury returned an indictment charging a Volcano man, 60 year-old Donald Needham, for a 2020 incident involving his neighbor.
As the Indictment alleges, Needham was charged with Murder in the Second Degree (intentionally or knowingly cause the death of another person). If convicted as charged, Prosecutors have provided notice that Needham may be subject to a mandatory minimum prison term based on the possession, use, or threatened use of a firearm in this incident.
Last week, Needham was arrested and charged via complaint in Hilo District Court. This afternoon, Needham is scheduled to make his initial appearance and return on the indictment warrant, which commits the case to Hilo Circuit Court. He remains in custody in lieu of $1,000,000.00 bail.
The investigation was handled by Detective Jeremy Kubojiri, Area I Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Ha’aheo Kaho’ohalahala.
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.
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