Shannan Hostetler, a 54-year-old resident of Pahoa, Hawaii, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses including possession with intent to distribute and manufacture methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, unlawful possession of firearms, and unlawful possession of explosives. Acting United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced the charges. Hostetler is scheduled for an initial appearance in federal court on June 30, 2025.
The investigation began earlier this year when the Hawaii Police Department received a tip about a known narcotics trafficker frequently visiting Hostetler’s property. The visits were suspected to be part of an arrangement to stash firearms, money, and narcotics. On June 24, 2025, Homeland Security Investigations executed a search warrant at Hostetler’s properties in Pahoa. The search led to the seizure of several items including a Glock 43 handgun, shotguns, a bolt-action rifle, cocaine, oil and crystalized methamphetamine. Materials suggesting the operation of a methamphetamine-conversion lab were also found.
During the search operation bomb-squad personnel from various agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Maui Police Department and Kauai Police Department assisted in clearing suspected explosive devices from the premises.
If convicted on these charges Hostetler faces up to life imprisonment and fines reaching $10 million. However it is emphasized that these charges are accusations; Hostetler is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court. Any sentence following conviction would be determined by a United States District Judge considering statutory sentencing factors alongside advisory guidelines.
In less than 24 hours after law enforcement concluded their search another party informed investigators about additional firearms located at Hostetler's properties turning over twenty more weapons including AR-15 style assault rifles among others some loaded with extended magazines.
The case continues under investigation by Homeland Security Investigations FBI ATF Hawaii Police Department with support from Maui Kauai police departments while prosecution proceeds under Assistant U.S Attorney Jonathan D Slack
