Michael Miske, a prominent Hawaiian businessman convicted of running a vast criminal enterprise, died from an accidental opioid overdose while in federal custody, according to Honolulu’s medical examiner. The 50-year-old was found unresponsive at the Honolulu Federal Detention Center on December 1st, and despite efforts by staff and emergency responders, could not be revived.
Miske, who was convicted on July 18th of racketeering conspiracy, murder, and 11 other felonies, was awaiting sentencing scheduled for January 30th. He was accused of using shell businesses to launder drug money and orchestrating the torture and murder of his late son's best friend, Jonathan Fraser.
Michael Miske Jr. was convicted of numerous felonies, including racketeering conspiracy and murder. (Honolulu Police Department)
The medical examiner's office determined the cause of death to be "toxicity of fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl," a synthetic opioid even more potent than fentanyl. How Miske obtained these substances within the detention center remains under investigation.
Miske's criminal enterprise, active from the late 1990s until his 2020 arrest, allegedly spanned a wide range of illegal activities. The murder of 21-year-old Jonathan Fraser was a particularly disturbing aspect of the case. Fraser, who was best friends with Miske's son Caleb, was involved in a fatal car crash with him in 2015. Despite police reports indicating Caleb was driving, Miske blamed Fraser for his son's death and allegedly sought revenge.
Jonathan Fraser's body has never been recovered. His loved ones believe Miske held him responsible for his son's death. (FBI Handout)
Kama'aina Pest Control, one of Miske's businesses, allegedly served as a front for his criminal operations. (Google Maps)
Following his conviction, the government was set to seize up to $28 million in assets belonging to Miske, including properties, vehicles, and artwork.
