Life Sentence with Mandatory Minimum in Waipahu Love Triangle Murder Case

Life Sentence with Mandatory Minimum in Waipahu Love Triangle Murder Case

Last week, the courtroom was filled with family, friends, and supporters as Judge Wong handed down a life sentence to Eric Thompson for the murder of Waipahu acupuncturist Jon Tokuhara. The proceedings highlighted not only the legal arguments but also the profound emotional toll on all involved.

Key Sentencing Details

• Count 1: Murder 2nd Degree Life imprisonment with the possibility of parole. Mandatory minimum: 15 years for use of a firearm during the offense.

• Count 2: Firearm in Commission of a Separate Felony 20-year indeterminate term. Sentences to run concurrently.

• Restitution Ordered $5,500 to the Crime Victim Compensation Commission for funeral costs. Plus $105 in crime victim compensation fees across both counts.

Prosecution’s Argument

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Joel Garner urged the court to impose:

• Life with possibility of parole (mandatory minimum 15 years) • 20 years for the firearm charge

He emphasized Thompson’s lack of remorse and deliberate planning in the killing, stating:

“No justification for murder as a response to an affair… The calculated and cold-blooded way the defendant committed this crime shows a cruel indifference to life.”

Judge Wong to Jon Tokuhara’s Mom

“I have read a lot of letters about Jon and I want you to know, and I'm sure you already know this, that he was well loved and I'm sure that is because of you.”

Judge Wong on support for Eric Thompson

“Thank you very much for fitting the gaps of who Mr. Thompson is… The span of the letters that are written to the court is extraordinary. I've not had letters in this amount, nor the breadth, which includes a bondsman and even a mailman.”

Defense Argument

Attorney Susan Arnett requested:

• Concurrent sentencing (both counts served together)

• Reduced mandatory minimum (asking for 5 years rather than 15)

She highlighted Thompson’s lack of prior criminal record, his supportive network, and contributions to community and family, including volunteer work with veterans and discounted bathroom remodeling for disabled seniors.

Thompson himself, advised not to comment due to pending litigation, briefly stated:

“We’re truly grateful to be blessed with enduring support from family and friends.”

Judge’s Final Remarks

Before imposing the sentence, the Judge Wong addressed the courtroom:

“No matter what happens today, it doesn’t heal anyone. But I want to remind everyone that this is the best justice system on this planet… The case, first and foremost, has always been about people.”

Closing Reflection

This sentencing marked the conclusion of an emotional, multi-trial process for the Tokuhara family and the Hawaii community. It underscored both the unforgiving nature of violent crime and the complex realities of the justice system – where legal statutes, victim loss, and defendant histories intersect to form final judgment.