PUUNENE, HI – Two years after the incident, Krystale Kaneakua’s family believes she is being treated unfairly in the wake of the Lahaina disaster. The 36-year-old was recently sentenced to a decade in prison for arson, a verdict her family argues is unduly harsh.
Kaneakua was convicted in June after a jury determined she intentionally set a brush fire along Maui Veterans Highway in 2022. The prosecution argued that she created the fire as a diversion to help her boyfriend, Steven Sarol, evade police. Surveillance footage showed Kaneakua and an accomplice, John Hlis, purchasing a gas can and lighter fluid shortly before the fire.
During the trial, a recording of a phone call from jail revealed Kaneakua and her mother discussing various stories to present to the jury. The prosecution used this as evidence of her intent to mislead the court. Hlis, who pleaded guilty to arson and received a one-year sentence, testified that Kaneakua masterminded the plan.
Kaneakua’s attorney requested credit for time served, emphasizing her positive contributions to the community through her successful floral business. Her family also highlighted her role as a loving mother of three, arguing that she deserves a second chance. Her sister emotionally recounted their grandfather’s recent passing and the impact of Kaneakua’s absence on her children.
Despite these pleas, the judge upheld the 10-year sentence, which Kaneakua’s family believes was influenced by the recent Lahaina disaster. They argue that the court aimed to make an example out of her, resulting in an unjust sentence. Kaneakua may be eligible for a parole hearing in six months.