Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that 39 year-old Auston R. Aini of Kona was arrested and charged in relation to an incident that occurred on May 18, 2024 at the Black Lava Vape Shop in Kona. According to police reports, Aini is alleged to have pointed what appeared to be a black colored pistol towards the store employee’s head, demanded that she open the register, and removed approximately $250.00 in U.S. currency as well as an unknown amount of money from within a clear tote
labeled “Maui Donations” that was located on top of the register. Aini then got into the front passenger seat of a sedan before leaving the area.

Aini made his initial appearance in Kona District Court on Monday afternoon. His bail was maintained at $323,000.00 and he was ordered to appear for a preliminary hearing on May 22, 2024.

As the Complaint alleges, Aini is charged with Robbery in the First Degree (in the course of
committing theft, was armed with a dangerous instrument, a firearm or a simulated firearm and threatened
the imminent use of force against another person, with intent to compel acquiescence to the taking of or
escaping with the property), Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree (firearm or simulated firearm),
Ownership or Possession Prohibited, Carrying or Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Separate
Felony, Place to Keep Pistol or Revolver, Terroristic Threatening in the Second Degree, and Theft in the
Third Degree.

The most serious offenses, Robbery in the First Degree and Carrying or Use of a Firearm in the
Commission of a Separate Felony, are both class A felony offenses which carry a penalty of a twenty-year
prison term.

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

The case was initiated by Kona Patrol. The felony investigation was led by Detective Len
Hamakado, Area II Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being
prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Chase Murray.

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.