HONOLULU (KHON2) -- A Hilo man in his 40s has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses related to illegal fireworks and drug possession.
Shaun Kahaunaele, also known as Shaun Legaspi, was taken into custody at approximately 12:50 p.m. on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, by the Hawaii Police Department’s Area I Vice Section.
The arrest followed the execution of a search warrant at his residence, where officers discovered about 12 pounds of various aerial fireworks and display devices.
During the search, police also seized firework sale sheets, price lists, and records indicating thousands of dollars in illegal sales.
Additionally, a small amount of marijuana concentrate was found, along with $15,000 in cash believed to be profits from the illegal fireworks operation.
Kahaunaele has been charged with one count of felony and one count of misdemeanor for operating without a required firework license or permit.
His total bail has been set at $23,000, and his initial court appearance is scheduled for November 12, 2024, in South Hilo District Court.
The Hawai‘i Police Department reminds residents that purchasing, possessing, or discharging aerial devices or display fireworks without a valid pyrotechnic permit can lead to Class C felony charges, which may result in a five-year prison term if convicted.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact Detective Charrise Wakita at (808) 961-2249 or via email at Charrise.Wakita@hawaiicounty.gov.