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Today, Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Puna man, 30-year-old Jason Benkosky, was charged via Felony Information for felony assault on his father.
Today, Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Puna man, 30-year-old Jason Benkosky, was charged via Felony Information for felony assault on his father.As the Felony Information alleges, Benkosky was charged with Assault in the First Degree and Assault in the Second Degree related to an incident that occurred on May 25th. Prosecutors further provided notice that if convicted, Benkosky faces a mandatory prison term as the offenses are alleged to have been committed against a person over sixty (60) years old.
Benkosky made his initial appearance on Thursday in Hilo Circuit Court via telephone. Judge Peter Kubota maintained Benkosky’s bail at $75,000.00 and set the matter for Arraignment and Plea on June 23rd at 8:30 a.m. Benkosky was originally charged last week, via Complaint, for the assault which involved the use of a machete. The filing of the Felony Information commits the case to the Circuit Court.
The investigation was handled by Detective BJ Sagon of the Area I Juvenile Aid Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Sylvia Wan.
The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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 in East Hawai‘i or (808) 329-8181 in West Hawai‘i.