Two former Hawaii State Legislators, Jamie Kalani English and Ty J.K. Cullen, have admitted to participating in a brazen bribery scheme, pleading guilty to honest services wire fraud. Forget public service – these guys were selling their votes to the highest bidder, accepting a steady stream of perks in exchange for wielding their legislative power. The feds have been building this case for some time, and the guilty pleas are a clear signal that the net is tightening on corruption in the Aloha State.
The scheme, detailed in court documents, involved a local businessperson – identified only as “Person A” – showering English and Cullen with bribes over several years. We’re talking cash payments, free hotel rooms (including a trip to Vegas for a concert, paid for by the guy they were supposed to be regulating), and lavish meals. It wasn’t about policy; it was a straight-up quid pro quo. Person A got legislative favors, and the lawmakers got a free ride.
Specifically, English allegedly requested two hotel rooms in Las Vegas in June 2019, using a concert as the pretext. In return, he emailed Person A a draft legislative report concerning cesspools – a report that conveniently benefited Person A’s company. He didn’t stop there, also asking Person A to foot the bill for a family dinner at a Honolulu restaurant. This wasn’t a one-time thing; it was a pattern of abuse of power.
Both English and Cullen each pleaded guilty to a single count of honest services wire fraud. While it’s just one count, the implications are massive. This charge isn’t about personal enrichment alone; it’s about betraying the public trust and undermining the integrity of the legislative process. The feds successfully argued that the use of electronic communication (emails, etc.) to facilitate the bribery crossed state lines, bringing in federal jurisdiction.
Facing the music, English and Cullen are now looking at a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Their sentencing hearings are scheduled for July 5th before Senior United States District Judge Susan Oki Mollway. While a full 20 years is unlikely, this case sends a clear message: if you sell your office, you will pay the price.
This case is far from closed. Expect federal prosecutors to turn their attention to “Person A” – the source of the bribes. The feds rarely stop with the low-hanging fruit. This is a reminder that corruption isn’t a victimless crime. It erodes public trust, distorts policy, and ultimately harms the citizens these officials are supposed to serve. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and expose the rot within the system.
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Key Facts
- Category: Public Corruption
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