104: Sentenced to Death in Hawaii

Common Mystics

On this episode of Common Mystics Jen and Jill explore a historic murder on the island of Kauai, Hawaii.* In 1897, Dr. Jared K. Smith was ambushed and shot at his home in Koloa, sparking outrage within the community. Who could commit such a heinous act? Investigators soon uncovered a family of suspects and a motive tied to Hawaii’s leprosy isolation laws. The ensuing Kapea Trial became a symbol of a society in flux, where Western legal principles clashed with Native Hawaiian political power and cultural traditions. The outcome was nothing short of tragic. Support Common Mystics on Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/commonmystics and get access to exclusive bonus content like the Detours from each episode, monthly episodes on mystical topics, and regular Zoom calls with the sisters and our fabulous Tier 4 Mentorship group.

*Please note that this episode contains discussion of murder and capital punishment and may be triggering for sensitive audiences. Please take care while you listen. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 for free assistance 24/7.