The Hawaii Intermediate Court of Appeals has upheld a protection order against Justin Stoler, who was accused of domestic abuse by his former partner, Celia Cheng. The court's decision, issued on October 13, 2026, is significant as it reinforces the legal protections available for individuals facing domestic abuse and stalking.
This ruling affects individuals seeking protection from abusive relationships and highlights the importance of the court's role in addressing such serious allegations. The case emphasizes that the legal system can provide necessary safeguards for victims of domestic abuse.
Background
Celia Cheng and Justin Stoler were in a dating relationship from April to September 2024. Cheng ended the relationship due to what she described as Stoler's abusive behavior. Following their breakup, Cheng sought legal protection from Stoler, filing a Petition for an Order of Protection (OFP) on March 14, 2025, citing multiple incidents of harassment and stalking.
The Family Court of the First Circuit issued a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) on the same day. Cheng's petition detailed several alarming incidents, including Stoler peering through the windows of her workplace and repeatedly attempting to contact her through various means, despite her clear requests for space. After hearings on April 23 and May 12, 2025, the Family Court granted the OFP, which prohibited Stoler from contacting Cheng for five years.
The Ruling
The Intermediate Court of Appeals reviewed the case and affirmed the Family Court's decision. The court found that Cheng had met her burden of proof, establishing that Stoler engaged in a course of conduct that seriously alarmed and disturbed her. The court stated, “Cheng met her burden to establish that [Stoler] engaged in an intentional or knowing course of conduct directed at [Cheng] that seriously alarmed or disturbed [Cheng], serving no legitimate purpose.”
The judges involved in the ruling were Presiding Judge Keith K. Hiraoka, Associate Judge Clyde J. Wadsworth, and Associate Judge Kimberly T. Guidry. They concluded that the Family Court had acted within its discretion and that substantial evidence supported its findings.
Impact
This ruling sets a precedent for future cases involving domestic abuse and stalking, reaffirming the importance of protective orders in safeguarding victims. It illustrates the court's commitment to addressing domestic violence and ensuring that victims have access to legal protections. The decision also emphasizes that the burden of proof lies with the petitioner, but that the court will uphold valid claims of abuse based on credible evidence.
The ruling may encourage more victims of domestic abuse to seek legal protection, knowing that the courts take such allegations seriously and that there are legal avenues available to ensure their safety. It also serves as a reminder that actions perceived as benign by the perpetrator can be interpreted as threatening by the victim, reinforcing the need for sensitivity and understanding in such cases.
What's Next
Stoler has the option to appeal the decision to a higher court, but details regarding any potential appeal were not available in the court filing. There are no related cases pending at this time.