KONA, Hawaiʻi — Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that Auston R. Aini, a 40-year-old Kona resident, has been sentenced to a ten-year prison term for a robbery that occurred at the Black Lava Vape Shop in Kona on May 18, 2024. The sentence was handed down on Monday in Kona Circuit Court, where Aini was also ordered to pay $260 in restitution.

Details of the Incident

According to police reports, Aini entered the vape shop and pointed what appeared to be a black pistol, later determined to be a BB gun, at the store employee’s head. He demanded that the employee open the cash register and proceeded to take approximately $260 in cash. Aini also stole an unknown amount of money from a clear tote labeled “Maui Donations” located on top of the register.

Additionally, police learned that Aini had used the same BB gun to intimidate another man outside the shop, ordering him to “check-out” the scene before committing the robbery. After the theft, Aini fled the area in the front passenger seat of a sedan.

Legal Proceedings

Aini was arrested on the day of the incident, May 18, 2024, and remained in custody on $323,000 bail throughout the legal process. On October 4, 2024, he entered a “No Contest” plea to the charge of second-degree robbery, a class B felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Investigation and Prosecution

The investigation was initiated by Kona Patrol and led by Detective Len Hamakado of the Area II Criminal Investigation Section of the Hawaiʻi Police Department. Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Chase Murray handled the prosecution.

Community Support for Law Enforcement

The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney reaffirmed its dedication to justice and encouraged community members to assist local law enforcement by providing information. Tips can be shared anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.