Agreement reached in Kauai murder case after 16 years, 2 jury trials

LIHUE (HawaiiNewsNow) - A Kauai murder case that spanned 16 years and two jury trials has finally reached a resolution.

Prosecutors reached a stipulated agreement with Vicente Hilario, convicting him of manslaughter and sentencing him to 20 years in prison in connection with the death of Aureo Moore.

On Dec. 17, 2010, Hilario caused the shooting death of Aureo Moore at the lookout above Anahola Beach Park, according to court documents.

“This agreement holds Mr. Hilario accountable through a manslaughter conviction and a substantial prison sentence while reducing the uncertainty of further litigation,” said Prosecuting Attorney Rebecca Like. “We recognize the profound loss suffered by Aureo Moore’s loved ones and the many years they have endured these proceedings.”

Hilario was convicted of first-degree murder twice.

The first verdict was overturned after an appellate court found that Hilario had been denied the right to approach the bench during jury selection.

In 2023, Hilario represented himself at his second trial, resulting in a second guilty verdict from a new jury.

Several issues were raised concerning Hilario’s constitutional rights during his second trial and the case’s lengthy history.

“Two juries have returned guilty verdicts in this case,” Like said. “Our responsibility as prosecutors requires us to carefully assess constitutional issues that may affect whether a conviction can stand on appeal.”

The Fifth Circuit Court approved the stipulated agreement and imposed the 20-year sentence Wednesday.

Previous coverage:

• Jury convicts Kauai man in execution-style killing of robbery witness
• Appeals court vacates Kauai man’s murder conviction
• Life without parole for Kauai man convicted in execution style killing
• Convicted murderer on Kauai found guilty of new charges
• Trial set for man accused in Kauai homicide
• Kauai man arrested for murder
• Police close Kauai road to investigate shooting