A leader of a Waianae gang has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison following his involvement in methamphetamine distribution and illegal gambling activities. The 47-year-old individual, Edward Caspino, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge J. Michael Seabright to 168 months of imprisonment, which will be followed by five years of supervised release. Caspino operated a variety of illicit activities on a 10-acre property, including cockfights and a firing range.
The sentencing arose from a plea agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice, which included the forfeiture of $600,000 in cash seized by federal investigators. Caspino initially pleaded not guilty to the allegations in November 2023 but later admitted his role in the criminal activities. As part of the consequences, he is required to relinquish ownership of the property at 87-881 Iliili Road in Waianae, which served as the headquarters for his operations.
Caspino led the “Westside” gang and organized large-scale cockfighting derbies from February 2021 through March 2023. These events involved not only betting on chickens but also side games like craps, generating profits of approximately $2,000 daily. Entry fees for participating teams ranged from $500 to $2,000, with significant cash prizes awarded to the top-performing teams. Spectators and participants placed bets ranging from $10 to over $1,000 on the outcomes of the fights, which commonly resulted in the death or incapacitation of the animals involved.
Caspino expressed remorse for his actions in a letter to the court, acknowledging the negative impact of his activities on the Waianae community, and promised to work toward personal improvement. His criminal history includes eight separate felony convictions between 1997 and 2001, including burglary and robbery.
Additional individuals linked to this illegal gambling enterprise have also faced judicial consequences. This includes Caspino’s brother, mother, wife, and an associate, all of whom pleaded guilty to related charges. Another co-defendant was convicted by a jury after a trial in March.
Federal authorities involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case have emphasized the severe consequences of engaging in illegal gambling operations. This case highlights the collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies, including the DEA, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, the Coast Guard Investigative Service, and the Honolulu Police Department, to combat drug trafficking and related criminal activities in Hawaii.
The Bigger Picture
This case underscores the long-reaching impact of illegal drug distribution and gambling operations on communities. Activities like those orchestrated by Caspino can contribute to increased violence, addiction, and disruption within neighborhoods. The sentencing serves as a critical reminder that engaging in such criminal enterprises carries significant legal repercussions.
The dismantling of Caspino’s operations is likely to improve community safety and well-being in Waianae as law enforcement continues to target the underlying issues of drug trafficking and illegal gambling. The concerted effort by federal and local agencies to address these crimes is aimed at reducing their detrimental effects, fostering a safer and more stable environment for residents.
For individuals considering involvement in similar activities, this case serves as a cautionary tale. The legal system is equipped to impose stringent penalties on those who pursue illegal ventures, ultimately prioritizing the protection and health of communities over individual gain.
