A Tongan police lieutenant in Maui, Hawai‘i, has been arrested and charged by US federal authorities over allegations he used his position for personal gain.
Lt Michael Vaitu‘ulala, 53, faces a charge of conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud following his arrest on August 5.
According to a 31-page federal criminal complaint, Vaitu‘ulala allegedly accepted regular cash payments from organisers of illegal cockfights in return for ensuring police would not enforce animal-fighting laws against them.
Investigators allege he approved where and when cockfights could take place and received thousands of dollars in cash.
The complaint also alleges Vaitu‘ulala protected drug traffickers by disclosing confidential information about investigations, including the identities of confidential sources, evidence photographs, sealed wiretaps and arrest warrants.
Federal authorities further allege he approved illegal fireworks displays and received illegal fireworks on several occasions.
Investigators have also raised questions about his finances, alleging casino records showed he gambled about US$30,000 during a Las Vegas trip in August 2025 while behind on mortgage payments.
The Maui Police Department said Vaitu‘ulala, an approximately 18-year veteran who most recently commanded its Criminal Intelligence Unit, had been placed on administrative leave.
His police credentials and department-issued firearm have also been removed pending the outcome of the case.
The department said it was fully cooperating with federal investigators.
Federal prosecutors have asked the court to detain Vaitu‘ulala without bail, alleging he poses a flight risk.
Vaitu‘ulala remains in the custody of the US Marshals Service, with a detention hearing scheduled for August 11 and a preliminary hearing for August 27.
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to US$250,000.
The allegations against Vaitu‘ulala have not been proven in court.
