KAILUA-KONA — The man considered a “primary suspect” in the string of fires across the west side of the island earlier this year is in custody.
Daniel “Duke” Abraham, 36, of Kailua-Kona, was arrested on Saturday on Basque’s Way in Kainaliu on a second-degree escape charge.
Police said Abraham was on a furlough agreement when he left for work on Feb. 18 and did not return.
Abraham is also considered a material witness in the case of Kainoa Lindo, who is accused of burning a Kealakekua courthouse March 3 while a judge and staff member were inside. Abraham was named as a brush fire suspect during a court hearing for Lindo, as Abraham was reportedly present when Lindo allegedly poured accelerant on the courthouse door and ignited it.
On July 18, Second Circuit Judge Rhonda Loo issued a $1 million warrant for Abraham’s arrest. Since Abraham had not been served with the brush fire warrant as of court on Tuesday, it is not clear when his hearing will be on that matter.
Earlier this year, a string of brush fires erupted across the western side of the island, some a few acres in size, some covering a few hundred acres.
Deputy prosecuting attorney Sheri Lawson argued that Abraham’s bond be maintained at $75,000, citing that he had multiple prior convictions, including contempt of court, and was not due to be released until Aug. 18, 2020.
“It may not make a practical difference, but we would ask for a reduction,” said defense attorney Gary Zamber.
The bond was maintained. Abraham is scheduled for a pretrial conference at 8:30 a.m. today at the family court building.
Both attorneys declined additional comment.
