Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that 39 year-old Jantzen-James Mata of Hilo was arrested and charged for the attempted distribution of methamphetamine, driving under the influence of a drug, possession of cocaine and heroin, and prohibited possession of a firearm after a routine traffic stop along Highway 11 in Puna. According to police reports, following the execution of a narcotics search warrant, police recovered over 400 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, $1,238.00 in U.S. currency, a loaded semi-automatic Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol, and ammunition.
Mata made his initial appearance in Hilo District Court on Monday afternoon. Bail was reduced to $411,000 from $611,000. He remains in custody.
As the Complaint alleges, Mata is charged with Attempted Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the First Degree (attempted distribution of one-eighth ounce or more of methamphetamine),
Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the First Degree (possess an ounce or more of methamphetamine), three counts of Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Third Degree (possess any amount of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin), Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence of an Intoxicant (under the influence of any drug), Place to Keep Pistol or Revolver, Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Facilitate the Commission of a Felony Drug Offense, Carrying or Possessing a Loaded Firearm on a Public Highway, Ownership or Possession of Firearm Prohibited, and two counts of Ownership or Possession of Ammunition Prohibited (9mm and .357 caliber).
The most serious offenses, Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the First Degree, Attempted Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the First Degree, and Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Facilitate the Commission of a Felony Drug Offense are all class A felony offenses which carry a maximum penalty of a twenty-year prison term. Prosecutors have provided notice that, if
convicted as charged, they will be seeking an extended term of imprisonment.
The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The traffic stop and case was initiated by Officers Christian Madera and Calvin Furtado, Puna Patrol. The felony investigation was handled by the Area I Vice Section, 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 Police Department Vice Section in East Hawai‘i at (808) 934-8423, West Hawai‘i at (808) 329-0423, or Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.