STATE INITIATES INVESTIGATION FOLLOWING AGREEMENT BY FEDERAL AUTHORITIES TO SHARE EVIDENCE

STATE INITIATES INVESTIGATION FOLLOWING AGREEMENT BY
FEDERAL AUTHORITIES TO SHARE EVIDENCE

HONOLULU – The state of Hawaiʻi has initiated an investigation following an agreement
with federal authorities to share evidence with state authorities related to an ongoing
federal matter.
On January 16, 2026, federal authorities informed state officials that they would provide
to the Attorney General evidence concerning an alleged incident involving an unnamed
“influential state legislator” who is alleged to have accepted approximately $35,000 in
funds.
Governor Josh Green and Attorney General Anne Lopez jointly determined that a state
investigation into this matter is in the public interest.
Governor Green has consistently emphasized the importance of individuals coming
forward voluntarily when concerns arise, expressing his hope that matters can be
resolved in a way that maintains public trust in government. In recent weeks, Hawaiʻi
state legislative leadership, while deferring to the Attorney General’s previous
recommendations to hold on investigating this matter, have also strongly urged that the
matter be formally reviewed to ensure accountability and transparency. The January 16
decision by federal authorities to share evidence provided a clear path for the Attorney
General to proceed without jeopardizing the ongoing federal investigation.
Pursuant to Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes § 28-2.5, the Attorney General has determined
that an investigation into the alleged conduct is in the public interest. The Department of
the Attorney General’s Special Investigation and Prosecution Division will lead the
investigation.
To preserve the integrity of the investigation, neither the Governor nor the Attorney
General will comment further on this matter.