Bail remains at $150,000 for a Kihei, Maui man who was arrested after allegedly arranging to meet someone he believed was a 13-year-old girl, but who was actually an undercover police officer.

Deputy Prosecutor Robert Rivera argued Wilcox arrived at the location, had a packet containing a small amount of crystal methamphetamine, as well as a packet of the drug on the front seat of his vehicle and marijuana. Court Documents show Wilcox was reported to possess more than 13 grams of methamphetamine and 22 grams of marijuana.

Appearing in court by video conference Tuesday from the Maui Community Correctional Center, John A. Wilcox, 53, pleaded not guilty to first-degree electronic enticement of a child and second-degree promotion of a dangerous drug.

Deputy Public Defender Ben Lowenthal asked for Wilcox bail to be reduced to an amount he could afford or to be released on supervision stating Wilcox has a residence, employment and family ties. Lowenthal also pointed out Wilcox’s last criminal conviction occurred 13 years ago.

Deputy Prosecutor Robert Rivera asked for bail to remain at $150,000, He added Wilcox, who was arrested March 16, 2020, used the internet code name “You can’t handle.” and “He does pose a serious risk to the children of our community,” he alos pointed out that Wilcox, who has seven contempt-of-court convictions, indicating he is a risk of fleeing.

Second Circuit Judge Kelsey Kawano denied the defense requests for supervised release or bail reduction stating because of the charge against Wilcox. He is ” a very high risk of harm to the youth in our community.” and “The current bail is appropriate.”

Wilcox was among 10 men arrested last year in a Maui Police Department sting operation.