LIHUE — Plea negotiations are in the works for a man accused of murder for allegedly stabbing and killing another man during a dispute last year. Francisco Keola Manuel, 37, is charged with murder in the second degree in the
LIHUE — Plea negotiations are in the works for a man accused of murder for allegedly stabbing and killing another man during a dispute last year.
Francisco Keola Manuel, 37, is charged with murder in the second degree in the killing of Gary Allen Allianic after a knife fight in the early morning hours of Sept. 26. Manuel also allegedly stabbed his pregnant girlfriend, Jasmine Duque.
A status hearing for a change of plea for Manuel is scheduled for March 17. Sources said Manuel could plead down to manslaughter, a class A felony.
An opposition to the motion to suppress statements was not filed before Tuesday’s hearing after prosecutors received a call from the defense asking to set up plea bargaining, sources said. That hearing has also been continued to March 17 to coincide with the change of plea status hearing.
Prosecuting Attorney Justin Kollar said the parties are close to a resolution, which is expected to be finalized in March.
Allianic’s mother, Teresa Belmes-Allianic, said she’s aware of the negotiations but doesn’t believe Manuel should be offered a deal.
“I believe in an eye for an eye. I can’t even go to church right now,” Belmes- Allianic said. “It’s ripped my whole family apart. I believe if (Manuel) takes the plea deal, it’s because he doesn’t want to get the others involved.”
