Bail maintained for suspect in Kona murder

KEALAKEKUA — A Kona District Court judge Monday declined to reduce bail for a 29-year-old man charged with murder in the death of Alanaokala Solomon Covington.

Gafatasi Jorden Kaipo Napoleon, 29, of Kailua-Kona made his initial appearance in court Monday before District Court Judge Margaret Masunaga. It was his first appearance after being charged Sunday with second-degree murder, as well as unlawful control of a propelled vehicle, third-degree promotion of a detrimental drug and fourth-degree property damage.

Public defender Anthony Kennedy asked for a bail reduction, calling the amount of $271,000 “tantamount to no bail.” A reduction to $75,000 would make it possible for Napoleon to post bail, Kennedy said, where he could stay with a family member and would consent to electronic monitoring.

Kennedy cited Napoleon’s “very limited criminal history” as justification to reduce his bail.

Masunaga denied the request, maintaining bail at $271,000 set by police upon charging Napoleon. At last check, Napoleon remained in custody at Hawaii Community Correctional Center.

Napoleon allegedly killed Covington, 36, and buried his body alongside Highway 190 on Oct. 16. An autopsy determined Covington died of a gunshot wound to the chest.

Also Monday, Napoleon requested a preliminary hearing where prosecution must prove there is probable cause to send the charges to Circuit Court. Masunaga set that hearing for Wednesday morning. If charges move forward, Napoleon would then enter a plea.

Second-degree murder carries a penalty of life in prison with the possibility of parole, with the Hawaii Paroling Authority setting the minimum.

Napoleon pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol in 2011, according to court records. He was ordered to, and completed, a substance abuse treatment program and to pay fines.

He’s also a construction worker and employed by a bail bondsman, Kennedy said.

Email Graham Milldrum at gmilldrum@westhawaiitoday.com.