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Three people were arrested today on extortion charges in connection with The Shack Waikiki.
The FBI said in a press release this afternoon that Tory Winward, 44, Curtis Swanson, 44, and Jesse Yoshino, 30, all of Honolulu, were arrested on extortion charges stemming from a criminal complaint in federal court.
"The complaint and accompanying affidavit allege various threats and acts of violence in connection with the operation of a Waikiki bar and restaurant," the press release said.
According to the complaint, the three tried to obtain money from the owners of The Shack Waikiki, as well as from promoters of events at the restaurant and bar.
Yoshino, the complaint said, attacked and punched an owner in November; Swanson and Winward demanded money from a promotional company in May; and Winward attacked and punched an owner in July.
"Allegations of threats, violence, and intimidation of small business owners are unusual in Hawaii, but the FBI and police will act swiftly when the evidence supports criminal charges," said FBI Spokesman Thomas Simon.
The three appeared in court this afternoon. They face a maximum 20 year-prison term.
They are being held at the Federal Detention Center. Swanson’s detention hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, Winward’s for Thursday and Yoshino’s for Friday.
