44 year-old Davi Alvarez of Hilo has pleaded “No Contest” to the offense of Murder in the Second Degree in relation to an October 31, 2020 incident at the Val Hala Apartment Complex in Hilo.

On Thursday, Alvarez appeared in Hilo Circuit Court where he entered a “No Contest” plea to the charge of Murder in the Second Degree (intentionally or knowingly caused the death of Noelle Buffett on October 31, 2020).

Alvarez, who was ordered to appear for sentencing on January 11, 2024, remains in custody in lieu of $1,000,000.00 bail.

Murder in the Second Degree carries a penalty of life in prison with the possibility of parole.

The case was initiated by South Hilo Patrol while the felony investigation was led by Detective John Balberde of the Hawaiʻi County Police Department’s Area I Criminal Investigation Section.

The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Jeff Malate.

 

Photo credit: Hawaiʻi County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office