Molestation trial LIHUE >> The child molestation trial of Kauai police officer Nelson Gabriel ended abruptly yesterday with a decision from Circuit Judge George Masuoka not likely for at least a month.
of Kauai cop ends
The abrupt halt comes without
any testimony on the investigationBy Anthony Sommer
tsommer@starbulletin.comMasuoka, who heard the case without a jury, gave the prosecution and defense three weeks to submit written closing arguments.
According to numerous sources, Nelson is a central figure in the ongoing investigation of Kauai Police Chief George Freitas, who was placed on involuntary administrative leave six weeks ago.
The Kauai Police Commission has refused to say anything about the investigation. However, numerous sources have said the complaint against the chief alleges he blocked an investigation of Gabriel on allegations of sexual harassment. Freitas has denied blocking any probe of Gabriel.
Gabriel's two-day trial this week stemmed from a 1999 20-count indictment charging him with repeatedly fondling a young female family member.
In a highly unusual move, the prosecution in the case did not call the investigating officer as a witness. The case was handled by Lt. Alvin Seto, head of the youth services bureau.
It was Seto, along with his boss, Inspector Melvin Morris, who filed the complaint against Freitas with the Kauai Police Commission.
There were no witnesses to Gabriel's alleged fondling of the girl and no physical evidence. The case boiled down to her word against his.
Gabriel's attorney, Michael Green, presented evidence of a history of frequent lying by the girl to parents and teachers. Under cross-examination, the girl admitted to almost all of the lies.
Gabriel remains on duty with the Kauai Police Department, although he has been assigned administrative tasks since his indictment two years ago.