Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced 65 year-old Richard Lopez of California was charged with attempted murder, assault, and abuse stemming from a September 1 incident at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.  Lopez is alleged to have stabbed and slashed his 64 year-old girlfriend in the face and neck.

As the Complaint alleges, Lopez was charged with Attempted Murder in the Second
Degree, Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, and Abuse of a Family or
Household Member. Attempted Murder in the Second Degree carries a penalty of life in prison
with the possibility of parole. Prosecutors have also provided notice of an intention to seek a
mandatory prison term in accordance with statutory sentencing guidelines in relation to
imprisonment for offenses against the elderly.

Lopez made his initial appearance in Kona District Court on Tuesday, September 6 where the Court
maintained his bail at $300,000.00 and ordered him to return for a preliminary hearing on September 15.

The investigation was initiated by South Kohala Patrol, and the felony investigation was
handled by Detectives Scott A. Dewey and Brandon Mansur, Area II Juvenile Aid Section, and
members of the Area II Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department.
Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys Kaua Jackson and Kate Perazich are prosecuting the case.

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

Photo credit: Hawaiʻi County Prosecuting Attorney