Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that 32 year-old William Kaipo, Jr. of Hilo was charged via felony information in relation to incidents involving the production and passing of counterfeit U.S. currency at several East Hawai‘i businesses. Kaipo was originally charged by way of complaint.

That case was dismissed without prejudice before Prosecutors added an additional charge and sought the issuance of a $200,000.00 warrant via the felony information which committed the case to circuit court.

On Friday morning, Kaipo was arrested by Sheriff deputies on the $200,000 warrant. Kaipo made his initial appearance in Hilo Circuit Court on Friday afternoon. Over Prosecutors’ objections, the Circuit Court judge released Kaipo on supervised release and set trial for October 14, 2024.

As the Information alleges, Kaipo is charged with five counts of Forgery in the First Degree and a single count of Theft in the Fourth Degree. w

Forgery in the First Degree is a class B felony offense which carries a penalty of either a ten-year prison term or four years probation and up eighteen months in jail. Prosecutors have provided notice that if convicted as charged, Kaipo is subject 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 case was initiated by South Hilo Patrol. The felony investigation was led by Detectives Kimo Keli‘ipa‘akaua and Jenny Lee, Area I Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kevin Hashizaki.

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 aat (808) 961-8300.