Former Kauai County Council Member, Arthur Brun, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for drug trafficking, assault of a federal law enforcement officer, witness tampering, evidence tampering, and firearm offenses. Brun, who was indicted with 11 other defendants on drug trafficking charges, pleaded guilty to ten of those charges. As a member of the Kauai County Council, Brun was involved in distributing methamphetamine on the island. The court emphasized the seriousness of his crimes, particularly his assault on a law enforcement officer, stating that such behavior cannot be tolerated, especially from a publicly-elected official. This sentencing serves as a reminder that elected officials will be held accountable for their criminal conduct.
Background Information
Former Kauai County Council Member Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison
In a significant development, Arthur Brun, a former member of the Kauai County Council, has been sentenced to serve 20 years in federal prison. The sentencing, carried out by United States District Judge Derrick K. Watson, comes as a consequence of Brun’s involvement in drug trafficking, assault of a federal law enforcement officer, witness tampering, evidence tampering, and firearm offenses. Brun, along with 11 other defendants, was indicted on multiple charges related to drug trafficking, assault, and other criminal activities. While Brun has pleaded guilty to ten charges, the other defendants are currently awaiting sentencing.
Sentencing Details
Judge Watson Sentences Arthur Brun to 20 Years in Federal Prison
Judge Derrick K. Watson, presiding over the case of Arthur Brun, has imposed a sentence of 20 years in federal prison. This severe sentence accounts for Brun’s involvement in various criminal activities, including drug trafficking, assault on a law enforcement officer, witness tampering, evidence tampering, and firearm offenses. The judge’s decision underscores the seriousness of the crimes committed by Brun and serves as a reminder that those who engage in criminal behavior will face severe consequences.
Charges and Guilty Plea
Arthur Brun Pleads Guilty to Multiple Charges
As a result of the investigations, Arthur Brun has pleaded guilty to multiple charges. These charges include drug trafficking offenses, assault on a federal law enforcement officer, witness tampering, evidence tampering, and firearm offenses. Brun’s guilty plea indicates his direct involvement in these criminal activities and showcases his willingness to accept responsibility for his actions.
Drug Trafficking Operation
Brun Worked with Others to Distribute Methamphetamine on Kauai
During his tenure as a member of the Kauai County Council, Arthur Brun collaborated with others to distribute significant quantities of methamphetamine on Kauai. His involvement in drug trafficking operations highlights the extent of his criminal activities while in a position of public trust. Brun’s actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the law and the well-being of the community.
Co-Defendant Maluelue Umu Supplied Methamphetamine to Brun
One of the individuals who supplied Arthur Brun with methamphetamine was co-defendant Maluelue Umu. Umu, a leader of the United Samoan Organization, which operates both inside and outside the prison system in Hawaii, played a significant role in facilitating Brun’s drug trafficking operation. Their collaboration underscores the existence of organized criminal networks involved in drug distribution, even within the confines of the prison system.
Assault on Law Enforcement Officer
Brun Assaulted a Kauai Police Department Lieutenant
In a shocking incident, Arthur Brun assaulted a lieutenant from the Kauai Police Department (KPD). This act of aggression occurred during a traffic stop conducted by KPD personnel, who were acting under the direction of federal investigators. In his attempt to evade law enforcement, Brun placed the vehicle in drive and sped off, causing injury to the KPD lieutenant. This assault on a law enforcement officer accentuates the gravity of Brun’s criminal conduct and poses a serious threat to public safety.
Judge Watson Emphasizes the Seriousness of Assault on Officer
During the sentencing proceedings, Judge Derrick K. Watson emphasized the gravity of Brun’s assault on a law enforcement officer. Acknowledging the inherent risks that officers face while protecting the community, the judge underscored the need for a sentence that adequately reflects the seriousness of the crime committed by Brun. The assault on the officer compounds the severity of Brun’s drug trafficking activities and calls for a strong judicial response.
Judge’s Statement
Judge Watson’s Statement on Brun’s Sentencing
In his statement regarding Brun’s sentencing, Judge Derrick K. Watson stressed the importance of recognizing the sacrifice that law enforcement officers make to safeguard the community. He emphasized that the court’s role is to impose a sentence that aligns with the seriousness of the crime committed. By imposing a 20-year prison sentence, Judge Watson sends a clear message that acts of drug trafficking and violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated.
Prosecution and Accountability
U.S. Attorney Clare E. Connors Comments on Holding Elected Officials Accountable
U.S. Attorney Clare E. Connors expressed her commitment to holding elected officials accountable for criminal misconduct. She highlighted the fact that Arthur Brun, as a publicly-elected official, led a criminal organization engaged in methamphetamine trafficking. Connors pointed out that Brun’s personal assault on a law enforcement officer further illustrates the corrupt nature of his offenses. The prosecution’s efforts in this case demonstrate their unwavering dedication to upholding the law and ensuring that elected officials face the consequences of their actions.
ATF Special Agent Jonathan T. McPherson Emphasizes Disapproval of Criminal Behavior
Special Agent Jonathan T. McPherson from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) expressed deep concern over Arthur Brun’s involvement in criminal activities. McPherson highlighted the significance of the sentence imposed on Brun, noting that it serves as a clear message to anyone engaging in similar behavior that it will not be tolerated. The ATF remains committed to working with law enforcement partners to combat organized crime and protect communities from the devastating effects of illicit drugs.
HSI Special Agent John F. Tobon Stresses No One is Above the Law
Special Agent John F. Tobon from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) emphasized the importance of the rule of law. Tobon stated that Arthur Brun’s actions, as an elected official, violated the trust of the community and demonstrated a disregard for the welfare of the public. Tobon reiterated that no one is above the law and that investigating organized crime remains a top priority for HSI. Their collaboration with other law enforcement agencies is crucial in disrupting criminal activities of this nature.
Law Enforcement Collaboration
Investigation Conducted by ATF, Kauai Police Department, and HSI
The investigation into Arthur Brun’s criminal activities was a collaborative effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Kauai Police Department (KPD), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Their joint efforts demonstrated the effectiveness of interagency cooperation in combating drug trafficking and other serious offenses. The investigation uncovered the extent of Brun’s involvement in drug distribution networks and played a crucial role in bringing him to justice.
Assistance Provided by Other Law Enforcement Agencies
Various other law enforcement agencies, including the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Coast Guard Investigative Service, provided valuable assistance throughout the investigation. Their collaboration contributed to the successful prosecution of Arthur Brun and the dismantling of the criminal organization involved in drug trafficking.
Statement from Kauai Police Department
Kauai Police Department Chief Todd Raybuck Comments on the Significance of the Case
Chief Todd Raybuck of the Kauai Police Department (KPD) highlighted the significance of the case and the impact it had on the community. He commended the dedication and collaboration between the KPD and federal partners in bringing this case to a conclusion. The actions of law enforcement officers involved in the investigation demonstrated their commitment to identifying, investigating, and apprehending those responsible for distributing illicit drugs. Chief Raybuck emphasized that the KPD will continue to work with its partners to combat drug distribution and ensure public safety.
Conclusion
ATF, Kauai Police Department, and HSI Successfully Bring Brun’s Case to Justice
The collaborative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Kauai Police Department (KPD), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) have resulted in the successful prosecution of Arthur Brun. Brun’s involvement in drug trafficking, assault, and other criminal activities has been met with a 20-year prison sentence, signaling the seriousness of his offenses. This case serves as a reminder that no one is above the law and that law enforcement agencies remain committed to protecting communities from the devastating effects of drug trafficking and criminal behavior. The prosecution and sentencing of Arthur Brun highlight the importance of accountability and the ongoing efforts to uphold justice.