In what can be deemed a distressing incident, David Akui-Cabanilla, III, a 36-year-old detainee, has pleaded guilty to assaulting multiple correctional officers at the Federal Detention Center in Honolulu. Akui-Cabanilla, who was being detained on a separate federal charge for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, admitted to fashioning makeshift weapons to carry out the attacks. He violently struck a correctional officer in the head, stole the officer’s keys and pepper spray, and then proceeded to spray multiple officers in the face with the pepper spray. The injured correctional officers faced significant harm, including concussions, serious injuries, hospitalization, and prolonged physical therapy. The consequences for Akui-Cabanilla could result in up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a hefty fine. This case highlights the threats and risks that correctional officers face daily and emphasizes the need for additional prosecutions against detainees responsible for unprovoked violent attacks.
Detainee Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Officers at Detention Center
Detainee pleads guilty to assaulting officers resulting in bodily injury
David Akui-Cabanilla, III, a detainee at the Federal Detention Center in Honolulu, pleaded guilty to two counts of assaulting federal officers, resulting in bodily injury. The incident occurred on March 23, 2020, when Akui-Cabanilla attacked multiple correctional officers. This article provides an overview of the background of the detainee, the weapons used in the assault, a description of the assault, the injuries sustained by the officers, the legal consequences for Akui-Cabanilla, as well as statements from United States Attorney Clare E. Connors and FBI Special Agent in Charge Steven Merrill. Additionally, the investigation details and prosecution of the case will be discussed.
Background of the detainee and incident
David Akui-Cabanilla, III, was detained at the Federal Detention Center in Honolulu prior to his trial on a separate federal charge for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Akui-Cabanilla was known to be a dangerous individual due to his previous conviction. On March 23, 2020, he assaulted multiple correctional officers at the detention center, causing bodily injury.
Weapons used in the assault
In preparation for his attacks, Akui-Cabanilla fashioned two makeshift weapons. The first weapon was a long tube sock tied to the loop of a locked metal padlock. The second weapon was a “shiv” formed from a razor blade with a piece of bedsheet tied around one end, simulating a handle. These weapons were used in the assault on the correctional officers.
Description of the assault
Akui-Cabanilla entered the office where a correctional officer was stationed in his housing unit. He attacked the officer by striking him in the head with the locked metal padlock. He then took the officer’s Bureau of Prisons-issued keys and pepper spray. Akui-Cabanilla proceeded to run towards the door leading out of the housing unit, where other correctional officers were waiting. As he attempted to unlock the door, he sprayed multiple officers in the face with pepper spray. He also punched one of the correctional officers on the side of his head and face, knocking him down to the ground. The correctional officers managed to subdue Akui-Cabanilla after a struggle.
Injuries sustained by the correctional officers
The first correctional officer who was struck by Akui-Cabanilla’s weapon was found unconscious on the floor of the housing unit office. He was covered in blood and had sustained a concussion and other serious injuries. He was transported to Queens Medical Center and was hospitalized for five days. Following his release from the hospital, he underwent two weeks of physical therapy before being able to return to work.
The correctional officer whom Akui-Cabanilla punched in the head also received emergency medical treatment at Queens Medical Center on the same day. He subsequently underwent months of periodic physical therapy for his injuries.
Legal consequences for the detainee
David Akui-Cabanilla, III, pleaded guilty to two counts of assaulting a federal officer resulting in bodily injury. Each count carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. U.S. District Court Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi has scheduled Akui-Cabanilla’s sentencing for August 25, 2022.
Statement from United States Attorney Clare E. Connors
United States Attorney Clare E. Connors expressed the dangers that correctional officers face each time they report for duty. She emphasized the need to investigate unprovoked violent assaults against correctional officers and to initiate additional prosecutions against culpable detainees. The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of correctional officers.
Statement from FBI Special Agent in Charge Steven Merrill
FBI Special Agent in Charge Steven Merrill stated that the FBI will not tolerate the assault of any federal officer, especially while they are performing their official duties. He condemned Akui-Cabanilla’s egregious act and expressed gratitude to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Hawaii for pursuing additional prosecution in this case. The FBI is dedicated to holding individuals accountable for violent acts against law enforcement officers.
Investigation details
The investigation into the assault at the detention center was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The FBI worked diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case against David Akui-Cabanilla, III. The investigative efforts of the FBI were crucial in ensuring a successful prosecution.
Prosecution of the case
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mohammad Khatib is prosecuting the case against David Akui-Cabanilla, III. The prosecution will present evidence, witness testimonies, and legal arguments to prove Akui-Cabanilla’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to seeking justice for the assaulted correctional officers and holding Akui-Cabanilla accountable for his actions.
In conclusion, the guilty plea of David Akui-Cabanilla, III, to assaulting federal officers at the detention center highlights the dangers that correctional officers face during the performance of their duties. The use of makeshift weapons and the physical assault on the officers resulted in significant injuries and has serious legal consequences for Akui-Cabanilla. The United States Attorney’s Office and the FBI remain committed to safeguarding the well-being of correctional officers and ensuring justice for victims of violent crimes.