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Mirikitani
witnesses ordered
to appear
A federal grand jury will
By Gordon Y.K. Pang
hear testimony on bonuses
given by the councilman
Star-BulletinWitnesses connected to an investigation of City Councilman Andy Mirikitani have been subpoenaed to appear before a federal grand jury Thursday, according to sources.
U.S. attorneys are expected to argue that Mirikitani gave $26,000 in bonuses to two employees with the expectation of getting a portion of the money back. Neither is still working for Mirikitani.
Records kept by the Council clerical staff show one of the aides, who was making $3,619.04 a month, received a one-time bonus of $16,916.72. The second employee, who was making $2,333.33 a month, received a one-time adjustment of $9,408.40.
A spokesman for the U.S. attorney's office declined comment yesterday. Philip Lowenthal, Mirikitani's attorney, said he did not know of the grand jury proceeding.
The FBI searched Mirikitani's office, van and home last month. FBI officials confirmed the three-term councilman is under investigation, although they have refused to say why.
Mirikitani has said the bonuses were rewards for hard work by the two employees and that he historically has given high merit awards to employees.
He has denied any wrongdoing, and said he knows of no reason why he would be investigated.
Allegations of wrongdoing are being circulated by two disgruntled fired employees who are out to discredit him, the councilman has said.
Mirikitani, an attorney, has been on the Council since 1990. He represents the 5th District, which includes Manoa, Makiki, McCully-Moiliili and Ala Moana.
City & County of Honolulu
