On February 7, 2025, Timothy Lee was indicted by the Oʻahu Grand Jury on charges related to campaign contribution offenses. The indictment includes nine counts of False Name Contribution, allegedly involving $13,000 in contributions made under a name other than his own during the year 2020.
Attorney General Anne Lopez emphasized the importance of adhering to campaign contribution laws, stating, "Campaign contribution laws are critical safeguards of our electoral process. The Department of the Attorney General will vigorously investigate and prosecute individuals that violate those laws."
The offense of False Name Contribution is classified as a class C felony, which carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
The case came to light following a referral from the Campaign Spending Commission to the Department of the Attorney General for investigation. The Special Investigation and Prosecution Division (SIPD) and Investigations Division conducted the inquiry. SIPD is responsible for handling cases involving corruption, fraud, and economic crimes in Hawaiʻi. Meanwhile, the Investigation Division manages criminal and administrative investigations related to state matters.
Deputy Attorney General Thomas Michener from SIPD is prosecuting the case identified as State v. Timothy Lee, 1CPC-25-0000161.
It is important to note that Lee remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.