Stipulated Agreement Provides for 20-Year Prison Sentence for
Vicente Hilario
LĪHUʻE — The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney has reached a stipulated agreement with Vicente Hilario providing for a conviction for manslaughter and a 20-year prison sentence in connection with the death of Aureo Moore. The agreement, which was subject to court approval, seeks to resolve a case that has spanned 16 years and two jury trials.
On December 17, 2010, Hilario caused the shooting death of Aureo Moore at the lookout above Anahola Beach Park.
Hilario was twice convicted of murder in the first degree. The first conviction was overturned after an appellate court determined that he had been denied the right to approach the bench during jury selection. At the second trial, Hilario represented himself, and a jury again convicted him of murder in the first degree in 2023.
Following the second trial, several issues were raised concerning Hilario’s constitutional rights. After evaluating those issues and the case’s lengthy procedural history, the parties reached an agreement providing for a manslaughter conviction and a 20-year term of imprisonment.
“Two juries have returned guilty verdicts in this case. Our responsibility as prosecutors requires us to carefully assess constitutional issues that may affect whether a conviction can stand on appeal,” said Prosecuting Attorney Rebecca Like. “This agreement holds Mr. Hilario accountable through a manslaughter conviction and a substantial prison sentence while reducing the uncertainty of further litigation. We recognize the profound loss suffered by Aureo Moore’s loved ones and the many years they have endured these proceedings.”
The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney acknowledges the work of the Kauaʻi Police Department’s many sworn officers and civilian personnel who contributed to the investigation and prosecution.
The Fifth Circuit Court approved the stipulated agreement and imposed the 20-year sentence today, October 21, 2026.
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