A Ka‘u man was sentenced today in Kona to 40 years in prison after being convicted of two sexual assault charges involving a minor.
David Kaawa IV of Na‘alehu was convicted on April 26 of continuous sexual assault of a minor under the age of 14 and sexual assault in the first degree.
Following a two-week trial, jurors found that for years Kaawa had continually abused a child in his care before the child turned 14 and that he had again assaulted the child after his 14th birthday.
Each charge carries a mandatory sentence of up to 20 years. Third Circuit Judge Ronald Ibarra ordered that the two terms be served consecutively.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD
During the trial, prosecutors said that the abuse occurred during a five-year period, from 2004 to 2009.
This comments section is a public community forum for the purpose of free expression. Although Big Island Now encourages respectful communication only, some content may be considered offensive. Please view at your own discretion. View Comments
