Hawaii Crime Boss Dies from Opioid Overdose in Federal Detention
HONOLULU — A notorious crime figure in Hawaii, Michael Miske, was confirmed to have died from an opioid overdose while in federal custody, according to statements from the local medical examiner. The 50-year-old’s death, attributed to "toxicity of fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl," is currently being treated as an accidental overdose, although the investigation remains ongoing. An autopsy report is expected in approximately 30 days.
Details surrounding how Miske obtained these potent synthetic opioids while at the Honolulu Federal Detention Center are unclear. Para-fluorofentanyl is notably more powerful than fentanyl and is often found in illicit drugs.
Miske was discovered unresponsive on December 1. Despite attempts by facility staff and emergency medical responders, he could not be revived.
In July, Miske was convicted on 13 charges, including racketeering conspiracy and murder in connection with organized crime activities. His criminal actions included the kidnapping of a 72-year-old individual over a debt, the release of harmful chemicals into rival establishments, and the murder of a family associate.
Following his conviction, the government was set to gain control of assets valued up to $28 million, which included luxury items such as boats and properties.
Miske was slated for sentencing on January 30. The Bureau of Prisons, responsible for managing 122 federal facilities, has faced numerous challenges recently, including incidents of staff misconduct and persistent issues with understaffing.
In a related context, a separate case emerged in August where an inmate and two accomplices were charged with attempting to smuggle drugs into a California penitentiary, leading to the death of a mailroom supervisor after opening a letter contaminated with fentanyl.
