Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Indicted in Bribery Investigation

Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke was indicted by a state grand jury on charges related to an alleged scheme involving COVID-19 contracts in exchange for campaign contributions. The indictment includes 12 counts, such as criminal conspiracy to commit bribery and falsifying candidate committee reports, which could result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years. Luke was indicted alongside five co-defendants, including businessman Tobi Solidum and former Democratic state Rep. Ryan Yamane. Governor Josh Green stated that Luke should consider resigning to allow the state to move forward. Luke has been on an unpaid leave of absence since April 23, when she was informed of the investigation. Prosecutors allege that in January 2022, Solidum provided Luke with two checks for $5,000 each, promising more funds in exchange for a COVID-19 testing contract. Luke has denied any wrongdoing and has not resigned from her position.