Shooting suspect had cocaine, police say

By Rod Ohira
Advertiser Staff Writer

A 17-year-old boy accused of shooting a Punchbowl man June 27 during a burglary was in possession of cocaine — not crystal methamphetamine — when he was arrested, police Capt. Carlton Nishimura said today.

Miti "Junior" Maugaotega Jr. had a large bag in which police found three small packets of cocaine, drug paraphernalia and items stolen in the Punchbowl burglary, police said.

It had been reported earlier that Maugaotega had "more than a user quantity of 'ice' " when he was arrested.

The type of drug in this case, cocaine or crystal meth, does not affect the charge of third-degree promotion of dangerous drugs against Maugaotega.

Maugaotega was charged as a juvenile with attempted second-degree murder, first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, three firearms offenses and two drug counts.

Prosecutors have asked the Family Court to allow Maugaotega to be tried as an adult. Senior Family Court Judge Frances Wong has scheduled an Aug. 27 hearing on the request.

Conviction as an adult could lead to life in prison, versus two years if the youth is convicted as a juvenile. Maugaotega, who turns 18 Sept. 29, remains in custody.