Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Kurtistown man, 26-year-old Kainoa Santiago was charged in relation to two separate incidents, the theft and arson of a Ford truck on December 2nd and the theft and unauthorized control of a Toyota Tacoma on November 24th.
As the Complaint alleges, Santiago was charged with five (5) offenses including Theft in the First Degree (a Ford truck valued over $20,000), Arson in the First Degree (a Ford truck valued over $20,000), Theft in the Second Degree (a Toyota Tacoma valued over $750), and two counts of Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle in the First Degree (operating a Toyota Tacoma and a Ford truck without the owners’ consent). Santiago was also arrested on three outstanding warrants related to non-appearance offenses.
A review of court records indicates that at the time of the alleged offenses, Santiago was out of custody pending unrelated felony matters, where a motion for revocation of his release was filed and is pending review by the assigned Circuit Court Judge.
Santiago is scheduled to make his initial appearance today in Hilo District Court. He remains in custody in lieu of $106,700.00 total bail in all matters.
Santiago is scheduled to make his initial appearance today in Hilo District Court. He remains in custody in lieu of $106,700.00 total bail in all matters.
Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kevin Soong.
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.
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