Judge denies release of Maui police commander accused of taking bribes from drug traffickers

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – A federal judge denied bail Tuesday for Maui Police Lt. Michael Vaituulala, ruling he is a danger to the public and cannot be trusted, following his arrest by the FBI on charges of accepting bribes to protect criminals.

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Vaituulala, who leads the Maui Police Department’s Criminal Intelligence Unit, entered the courtroom escorted by federal marshals.

He was arrested a week ago and is accused of accepting bribes to protect drug traffickers, illegal cockfighters, and illegal fireworks distributors over a period of years.

Defense argues for release; judge disagrees

Vaituulala’s attorney, Gary Singh, argued his client should be released on bail, citing a support system that included about a dozen family members who flew from Maui for the hearing.

Singh also noted that Vaituulala had surrendered his passport and firearms and said the charges are just allegations.

Prosecution cites flight risk, obstruction concerns

The U.S. attorney argued Vaituulala is a flight risk, noting he is attempting to sell his house. Prosecutors also said the criminal complaint does not represent the full extent of the evidence against him.

The federal criminal complaint states that until last October, Vaituulala served as an FBI Task Force Officer and represented himself as a federal agent — while allegedly helping criminals avoid arrest. The complaint further states he is at serious risk of obstructing justice because he illegally disclosed the identities of confidential sources, evidence, a pending wiretap, and information about ongoing federal investigations into perpetrators and co-conspirators.

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After approximately 30 minutes, the judge ruled Vaituulala should remain behind bars because he can’t be trusted.

“I suspect where there’s smoke there’s fire,” said Judge Rom Trader.

Police chief responds to charges

Maui Police Chief John Pelletier addressed the charges at a public event on Monday.

“The actions of one individual don’t reflect the profession” Pelletier said. “We’ve seen policing being politicized in presidential cycles and different things like that. We’ve seen false narratives. But remember law enforcement is the one who took that individual into custody.”

Pelletier added: “Sometimes we get knocked down but we get back up and we’re stronger for it. We’re better for it. We’re more resilient for it.”

Family present as judge ruled

Vaituulala’s wife cried as family members spoke to him in Tongan as he was taken back to the Federal Detention Center. One family member said “ofa atu,” meaning “I love you.”

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Vaituulala’s attorney declined to do an interview with Hawaii News Now.

Vaituulala is due back in court Aug. 27 for a preliminary hearing.