Mental Evaluation Ordered for Kawena Krause

One of two men charged with the murder of Hawaiian Acres resident Dante Gilman today waived his right to a preliminary hearing, sending his case on to Circuit Court.

District Court Judge Harry Freitas ordered Claude Krause, 30, to appear before Circuit Court Judge Glenn Hara on Feb. 12 at 8:30 a.m.

A judge has ordered a mental exam for Kawena Krause, shown above in the courtroom today. Photo by Dave Smith.

Also today, Freitas granted a request from the lawyer for Krause’s cousin, Kawena Krause, that a mental evaluation be performed for his client.

Attorney Christopher Bridges told Freitas that based on conversations he has had with his client he had concerns that his 19-year-old client was impaired.

“I do have questions about his fitness,” Bridges said.

Freitas ordered that the mental exam be completed by Feb. 19 and that Kawena Krause return to his courtroom  on Feb. 26 at 1:30 p.m.

The two cousins from Kurtistown have been charged with murder, robbery, burglary, theft and firearms charges in connection with Gilman’s death.

Gilman’s remains were found Jan. 18 off Stainback Highway.