Molokaʻi Man Sentenced 12 Years, 7 Months in Meth Case

Moloka’i meth sentencing, Maui Now graphic.

By Maui Now Staff

A 35-year-old Molokaʻi man was sentenced to 12 years and seven months in prison on Monday after pleading guilty to charges involving the distribution and possession of “ice” or crystal methamphetamine.

Justice officials say Jon Hans Kaapuni, Jr., 35, of Kaunakakai, was sentenced yesterday by US District Court Judge J. Michael Seabright for his role in the drug case, which involved five or more other members.

According to information released by US Attorney Florence Nakakuni, Kaapuni was found responsible for the distribution of 692 grams of pure methamphetamine or “ice,” and an additional 240 grams of generic meth.

A total of six individuals were convicted for their participation, including Maui co-defendant Benjamin “Kamu” Fuller, who was previously sentenced to 14 years in jail, Justice Department officials said.

In addition to jail time, Kaapuni, Jr. was also ordered to forfeit a custom fishing catamaran, as well as his interest in a Molokaʻi property. Justice officials say the items were purchased with proceeds from the distribution and sale of meth.

The court found that Kaapuni, Jr. was “at the pinnacle” of the distribution activities on Molokaʻi, according to information released by the Justice Department.

The charges stemmed from an investigation conducted by the FBI and Maui Police Department.  Prosecution was handled by US  Assistant Attorney Mark Inciong.