HONOLULU (KHON2) — Jurors in the Eric Thompson murder trial must now decider whether or not the convicted murderer will receive life in prison with or without parole.
Following yesterday’s guilty verdict, the trial is now in its second phase, with prosecutors wasting no time in laying out their argument. The prosecution believes Thompson should serve life without the possibility of parole, given the brutal nature of Jon Tokuhara’s murder and what they uncovered in Thompson’s home.
Thompson’s gun collection, totaling 12 guns, was seized when he was arrested back in 2022, and has become a focal point in today’s trial.
“In his bedroom, in his bedroom safe, laying on top of the post marital agreement, was a gun case, inside–two Wesson pistols,” said Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Ben Rose.
Prosecutors painted a picture of a man who planned his actions carefully and had the means to carry out even more violence.
But Thompson’s family presented a very different picture of the man they know. His mother shared stories of Thompson’s childhood, his love of pets, children and his family.
“Compassionate, caring and he’s always thought of other people, especially me,” said Margaret Thompson, his mother. “When the kids were young, he always thought of taking care of me.”
Defense Attorney Nelson Goo asked Thompson’s mother whether or not she believes Thompson to be a threat to the community, to which she declined.
“Oh no. Not at all. Of course not, no,” Thompson’s mother said.
Thompson’s high school teacher also testified in his defense, sharing that he lent Thompson money to help purchase his Kahala home and that Thompson paid it all back with interest.
“Eric Thompson: Hardworking, honest person, trustworthy,” said Trenton Jeong, Thompson’s former teacher. “If I thought Eric Thompson was a threat to our community, I wouldn’t be here testifying.”
Jurors are expected to begin deliberations tomorrow, deciding whether Thompson will spend the rest of his life behind bars or have a chance at parole.