East Hawai‘i News
Lawmakers Move Toward Election-Day Voter Registration
Those looking to register to vote on election day wouldn’t need proof of residency, but providing false information would be considered a felony.
Cannabis Minister Roger Christie Sentenced to Five Years
The term, to be served concurrently with two one-year sentences for failing to file a tax return, was the minimum sentence allowed under his plea agreement.
UPDATE: Police Identify Body Found Saturday in Hilo
Police said Jodi L. Masutomi, 48, of Hilo sustained injuries consistent with a fall from a height.
State Budget Includes Slight Increase in TAT for Counties
Various Big Island projects, including funds for a Puna regional library, are included in the budget that still needs a final vote and the governor’s signature.
Pair Featured in Surveillance Video Surrenders to Police
The two were shown in images circulated by police on April 21 and turned themselves into police on April 22.
Police Release April 25 List of Arrest Warrants
The Hawaii Police Department has released its weekly list of some of the individuals wanted on outstanding warrants.
Keaau Store Workers Discover Snake in Shipping Container
The employees whacked the 2-foot-long non-venomous gopher snake on the head to prevent its escape.
Lawmakers Agree on Funding for Pharmacy School Building
House and Senate members of the budget conference committee have agreed to provide $33 million for a new facility at the University of Hawaii at Hilo.
Judge Rules Farmer ‘John Doe’ Can’t Remain Anonymous
The papaya farmer who is a plaintiff in a lawsuit challenging a county GMO registration requirement must reveal his identity to remain in the lawsuit.
Bill Mandates Native Hawaiian Expertise on Land Board
The new law would add a second requirement for members with specific backgrounds on the Board of Land and Natural Resources.
‘Revenge Porn’ Bill Passes Conference Committee
If approved by the full Legislature, the bill would make it a felony to transmit or post nude photos online in an attempt to humiliate someone.
Martin Guilty in Police Shooting, Faces Life Without Parole
Keaka Martin, accused of trying to kill two officers in Hilo in January 2013, was convicted today on 10 counts, including one of first-degree attempted murder.
Park Patrons Credited With Grabbing Alleged Kidnapper
Police said Keahi Sale, the object of an intense manhunt Saturday, was held by bystanders at Spencer Beach Park after the kidnapping victim called out for help.
Brushfire South of Punaluu Beach Under Control
The fire of unknown origin blackened 12 acres on the southern end of Punaluu Beach before being brought under control at about 10 p.m. Tuesday.
Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida Headed to Law Firm
A former deputy prosecutor, the county’s current top civil attorney is wrapping up a record 26 straight years of legal service to the county.
Kapiolani Street Extension Moving Forward
If granted use of three parcels of state land Friday, the county expects to put the project out for bids in June, with completion of the road expected in 2016.
Fellowship Named for Big Island Botanist Lani Stemmermann
The endowment by the president of the UH faculty union honors the Hilo-born Stemmermann, a champion of Hawaii plants, environments and ecology.
Police Seek Help Identifying Suspects in Mall Incident
Police are looking for a male and female allegedly involved in a shoplifting incident in which a store employee was injured.
Lawmakers Agree to Fund ‘Green’ Energy Program
The GEMS program aims to provide low- to moderate-income homeowners and renters with photovoltaic systems that would be paid for through electricity bills.
