A 43-year-old Kula man, Jess Kiesel Lee, has been sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for his role in detonating improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on Maui in August 2024. The sentencing, which took place last week, marks a significant development in the case that has raised concerns within the local community. Lee was arrested in September 2024 following a coordinated effort between the Maui Police Department (MPD) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Hawaii News Now reported on the arrest, highlighting that Lee faced multiple charges related to the possession and use of explosives.
The incidents, which occurred near Kaamana Street in Kula, involved multiple IEDs, one of which caused considerable damage upon detonation, as detailed in The Maui News. The investigation further revealed that the materials used in the IEDs were consistent with those found in homemade fireworks. Lee's prior criminal record, including felony convictions for assault and terroristic threatening, added further complexity to the case. The sentence reflects the severity of the charges and serves as a warning against such dangerous actions.
The legal proceedings also involved another individual, Robert Francis Dumaran, who pleaded guilty to related charges in October 2024. The U.S. Department of Justice announced that Dumaran admitted to attempting to detonate a homemade firework and possessing an unregistered destructive device, highlighting the pervasive nature of these illegal activities.
The community has reflected on these events, recognizing the importance of public safety and the need for law enforcement vigilance. The case underscores the potential dangers of illegal explosives and the consequences for those involved, impacting the overall business environment by instilling a sense of caution and increased security measures within local establishments.
