John B. Stancil, a member of the Miske Enterprise, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for racketeering conspiracy. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Derrick K. Watson in Honolulu. Stancil, 37, from Waimanalo, pled guilty on January 22, 2024, admitting his involvement in the criminal activities of the Miske Enterprise.
Stancil's plea agreement revealed his participation in chemical weapon attacks on two Honolulu nightclubs in March 2017 and a murder-for-hire conspiracy under orders from Michael J. Miske. He provided chloropicrin for the attacks and shared details about a potential victim with co-conspirators. Stancil also acted as a getaway driver for assaults and coordinated robberies for the enterprise.
Judge Watson described Stancil as "among the most culpable" members of the Miske Enterprise and noted that he was one of Michael Miske’s "key confidantes and lieutenants." Despite this characterization, Judge Watson expressed that he could not impose a higher sentence due to statutory limits.
Acting U.S. Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson highlighted the efforts of law enforcement agencies in bringing members of the Miske Enterprise to justice: “Today’s sentence represents the culmination of years of tireless work...demonstrates our strong commitment to investigating, prosecuting, and convicting those who violate the law."
FBI Honolulu Special Agent David Porter emphasized collaboration between agencies: “This sentencing reflects years of collaboration...the FBI remains steadfast in its commitment to dismantle violent criminal enterprises.”
Adam Jobes from IRS Criminal Investigation stated: “Mr. Stancil’s racketeering charge reminds us that organized crime threatens innocent lives for money.”
Lucy Cabral-DeArmas from Homeland Security Investigations reiterated their commitment: “Our dedication to this cause is unwavering...these criminals are held accountable for their actions.”
The prosecution was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation involving multiple federal and local agencies working together against criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Inciong, Michael Nammar, KeAupuni Akina, and Aislinn Affinito prosecuted this case.