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Big Island
Prosecutor
*Denotes incumbent
Brenda L. Carreira
DEMOCRAT
Age: 40
Job: Private attorney
Years here: 40What are the unique qualifications you bring to this job?
Fifteen years of "hands-on" trial/court experience as a prosecutor and defense attorney. Administrative, supervisory and legislative skills. The ability to effectively communicate with others. A better, broader and common-sensical perspective of the criminal justice system. The trust and respect of the private bar and law enforcement agencies.
Is the prosecutor's office slow to get cases through the system? If so, what can be done to speed it up?
The complexity of the case and the skill level of the screening deputy have a direct impact on how fast a case is prosecuted. I would implement the following: a) an aggressive and progressive "hands-on" training for deputies; b) reorganization and streamlining of workload; and c) active recruitment of experienced trial attorneys.
Will you prosecute individuals buying hemp seeds, which are legal under federal law?
No, as long as they are purchased from legitimate sources and used for legitimate purposes.
Jay T. Kimura*
DEMOCRAT
Age: 49
Job: Attorney
Years here: 49What are the unique qualifications you bring to this job?
My 21 years of experience in the prosecutor's office gives me a unique insight into how the prosecutor's office runs and how it can best serve the community. I serve on local, state, national and international groups that work toward improving the criminal justice system and community. Continued vigorous prosecution is a given, and programs and partnerships will be expanded.
Is the prosecutor's office slow to get cases through the system? If so, what can be done to speed it up?
If given the resources, I would add more prosecutors, investigators, paralegals, detectives, crime lab staffing and equipment, an automated police-prosecutor-defense-court records management system, judges and staff, public defenders, higher fees for court-appointed counsel, ... better court facilities, more sheriffs, intake workers, jail guards to transport prisoners. I would also support the direct filing of certain felonies.
Will you prosecute individuals buying hemp seeds, which are legal under federal law?
I would not prosecute anyone buying sterile marijuana seeds that are incapable of germination. It is well-accepted law that a state may set a stricter standard than the federal government. For example dry counties. The federal government should ensure that items shipped to Hawaii comply with state laws.
