Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that 48 year-old Kris Villasista was arrested and charged in relation to the theft of a Toyota 4Runner reported stolen from Honoka‘a residence on March 1, 2024, the theft of a Honda all-terrain vehicle (“ATV”) reported stolen from an O‘okala residence on March 4, 2024, and possession of methamphetamine.

Villasista is scheduled to make his initial appearance in Hilo District Court on Wednesday afternoon. He remains in custody in lieu of $130,000.00 bail.

As the Complaint alleges, Villasista was charged with two counts of Theft in the First Degree (theft of a motor vehicle, a Toyota 4Runner and Honda ATV), two counts of Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle in the First Degree, Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree (possess over one-eighth of an ounce of methamphetamine), and Habitual Property Crime.

Theft in the First Degree and Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree are both class B felony offenses which carry a maximum penalty of a ten-year prison term. If convicted as charged, Prosecutors have provided notice that Villasista is subject to a mandatory prison term and will not be eligible for probation.

The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The cases were initiated by Hamakua/North Hilo Patrol. The felony investigation was handled by the Crime Reduction Unit, Area I Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The cases are being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kevin Soong.

The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney remains dedicated to the pursuit of justice with integrity and commitment. Anyone having information to assist local law enforcement should call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.