Courthouse arson case stalled by search for wanted witness

Although it was a hearing for a man charged with burning a courthouse and threatening teenagers, much of a Monday pretrial conference focused on finding the primary suspect in the fires that burned large rural portions of the Big Island several months ago.

Kainoa Lindo, 22, of Honaunau is charged with first-degree arson, conspiracy to commit arson, first-degree criminal property damage and two counts of first-degree terroristic threatening.

The charges stem from two different incidents. One was for intentionally setting a fire that damaged a door and wall at the courthouse March 3, the day Lindo’s alleged accomplice, Randi Keli Banagan, was set to be sentenced for a probation violation, and possibly sent to prison. The other incident was when Banagan allegedly threatened teenagers with a handgun while Lindo was driving the vehicle they used after the courthouse fire.

During a previous preliminary hearing, police testified that Daniel “Duke” Abraham was thought to be in the area during the arson and that Abraham was suspected of starting a number of brush fires throughout West Hawaii, most near the intersection of Highway 190 and Daniel K. Inouye Highway.

During the pretrial conference Monday, defense attorney Bob Kim said that makes Abraham a material witness for the arson case, and his presence was necessary for the trial to proceed.

“They are complex cases,” Kim said, adding additional time was needed to prepare.

Both cases have extensive evidence, including DNA, he said, and he asked for the trial to be continued.

Kim said Abraham is apparently still on the island, as he’s been seen in the Milolii area. Abraham also is wanted on an escape charge. Another warrant was issued Monday for his arrest on top of the escape charge.

Judge Rhonda Loh set the trials for Feb. 7 and set the bond at $1 million.

Email Graham Milldrum at gmilldrum@westhawaiitoday.com.