A Kona jury found 29 year-old Ioane Asagra of Captain Cook guilty of Murder in the Second Degree and Arson in the First Degree in relation to a May 25, 2021 shooting on Keauhou-Kainaliu Beach Road, also known as “End of the World.”

Prosecutors intend to seek an extended term of imprisonment, which would subject Asagra to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder conviction, alleging that it is necessary for the protection of the public and because Asagra is a persistent offender having been convicted of two or more felonies, committed at different times, when he was over the age of eighteen.

After reading the jury’s guilty verdict, the Court ordered that Asagra, who remains in custody having been denied bail, return for an extended term hearing on June 27, 2023. At that time, a jury will be empaneled to determine whether Asagra should be subject to an extended term and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

As the Indictment alleged, Asagra was charged with Murder in the Second Degree for causing the death of Joey Richmond and Arson in the First Degree for setting fire to a BMW motor vehicle. Murder in the Second Degree typically carries a penalty of life in prison with the possibility of parole. Arson in the First Degree is a class A felony which carries a penalty of a twenty-year prison term.

The investigation was handled by Sergeant Kimmerlyn Makuakane-Jarrell, South Hilo Cellblock, formerly of the Area II Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department.

The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys Kauanoe Jackson and Kate Perazich.

“The jury’s verdict reaffirms our Office’s commitment to seek justice for Mr. Richmond. It sends a clear message that we will hold violent offenders accountable to protect our community,” said Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen in a press release.

 

Photo credit: Hawaiʻi County Prosecuting Attorney