Maui resident Jess Kiesel Lee, 43, a convicted felon, was sentenced to over 3 years in federal prison for illegally possessing explosive powder. The case began after Lee set off a homemade firework near Kaamana Street in Kula. Police found several improvised explosive devices in the area, and the FBI identified Lee’s fingerprints on one. A month later, a search of his Kula home recovered more improvised explosive devices, weapons, ammunition, and methamphetamine. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing explosives, including the flash powder Lee had, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
U.S. District Judge Jill A. Otake sentenced Lee to 40 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release, noting the dangers fireworks pose to individuals and Maui’s wildfire-prone environment. "The protection and safety of our community is our highest priority," said Ken Sorenson, U.S. Attorney, who added, "We pledge to aggressively investigate, charge, and convict those who unlawfully construct, possess, or detonate explosives and explosive materials," as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The case was a joint investigation involving local authorities, the FBI’s Laboratory Division, and the ATF, reflecting ongoing concern over homemade explosives in island communities. FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter stated, "The FBI—in coordination with our law enforcement partners—is committed to using every tool available to hold criminals accountable when they threaten public safety," as mentioned by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
