A Hawaii man, Eric Thompson, was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after being convicted of murdering his wife’s acupuncturist, Jon Tokuhara, in January 2022. Thompson, 37, was found guilty of second-degree murder, with the court handing down a sentence that also includes 20 years for a weapons charge. He will be required to serve at least 15 years for the murder charge. The sentencing follows a second trial after the first one ended in a mistrial due to a hung jury.
The Murder and Investigation
The killing took place near Honolulu on January 12, 2022. Tokuhara, 47, was found dead in his acupuncture clinic by his mother. The authorities quickly launched an investigation, and surveillance footage played a key role in linking Thompson to the crime. Police were able to identify Thompson’s truck at the scene and, further evidence came to light when Thompson’s hat was found by a homeless man. DNA evidence collected from the hat helped link Thompson to the murder, confirming his involvement.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Thompson’s wife had been having an affair with Tokuhara. Between May and July of 2021, she and Tokuhara had a relationship, which Thompson discovered. The couple had been married for years, and Thompson’s wife had even referred to Tokuhara for acupuncture services, though she later confided in a patient that she was having an affair. Instagram messages between the wife and Tokuhara revealed her fear of Thompson finding out about the affair.
The Trial and Sentencing
Thompson’s defense team argued that he was not in the area at the time of the murder and suggested that other people had motives to kill Tokuhara, as he was allegedly having multiple affairs. However, the jury convicted him of second-degree murder. At the sentencing hearing, Thompson’s wife supported him by sitting behind him in court, though she chose not to speak with the media afterward.
Elton Escobido, a friend of Tokuhara’s, spoke out to defend the victim’s character, stating that Tokuhara was “a nice guy” who contributed positively to the community. He mentioned that Tokuhara had even given a $2,000 scholarship to students involved in sports and the medical field.
Eric Thompson’s case highlights the tragic consequences of infidelity, jealousy, and violence. While Thompson may one day have the opportunity for parole, the life he took and the impact on Tokuhara’s family and community cannot be undone. This case serves as a grim reminder of the deadly potential of unchecked emotions and unresolved conflicts.
