Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Hilo man, 52-year-old Anthony Kahiokala Hatori, was charged with the attempted distribution of methamphetamine, felony possession of both dangerous and harmful drugs, including carisoprodol and methamphetamine, and a traffic offense related to an October 30th incident in Hilo.
As the Complaint alleges, Hatori, who has sixteen (16) prior felony convictions, was charged with eight ( 8 ) offenses, including Attempted Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the First Degree (distribution of over an eighth of an ounce of methamphetamine), Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree (possession of over an eighth of an ounce of methamphetamine), two counts of Promoting a Harmful Drug in the Second Degree (possession of over fifty or more capsules, tablets, or dosages of a harmful drug, carisoprodol, and possession of over an eighth of an ounce of marijuana concentrate), two counts of Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Third Degree (any amount of methamphetamine), Prohibited Acts Related to Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving Without a License.
A review of court records indicates that at the time of the alleged offenses Hatori was on supervised release, which was granted over Prosecutors’ objections, for another unrelated felony drug matter that occurred in May 2021.
The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Hatori is scheduled to make his initial appearance this afternoon in Hilo District Court. He remains in custody in lieu of $146,000.00 bail.
The investigation was handled by the Area I Vice Unit, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Elyssa Correia Keltner.
The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney remains dedicated to the pursuit of justice with integrity and commitment. Anyone having information concerning illegal narcotics distribution should call the Hawai‘i County Police Department Vice Unit in East Hawai‘i at (808) 961-2258 or in West Hawai‘i at (808) 326-4646 Ext. 226, or Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.