HONOLULU -- Nearly 30 years after it was taken from Maui, a Hawaiian skull has been returned to the islands.

The skull came to the attention of authorities last year, when a California man posted it for sale on eBay. He was arrested after selling the skull to an undercover federal agent for $2,500.

"The prosecution was swift. The judgment was passed down. And that now, the most important part is that the po'o (head) could be repatriated," said Edward Healoha Ayau, of Hui Malama.

"We were able to return her on Nov. 1. And we are planning to discuss the final re-interment at the next Island Burial Council meeting, which is scheduled for Nov. 17," said Melanie Chinen, of the Historic Preservation Division.

The man who took the skull was sentenced to pay a $13,000 fine and serve 600 hours of community service.