Today, Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Pahoa man, 53-year-old John Desa, was charged for attempted distribution of methamphetamine and heroin.

As the Complaint alleges, Desa, who has prior five (5) felony convictions, was charged with seven (7) offenses including Attempted Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the First Degree (intent to distribute over an eighth of an ounce of methamphetamine), Attempted Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree (intent to distribute any amount of heroin), Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree (possession of over an eighth of an ounce of methamphetamine), two counts of Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Third Degree (possession of methamphetamine and heroin), Prohibited Acts Related to Drug Paraphernalia, and Ownership or Possession Prohibited of Ammunition.

Desa made his initial appearance today in Hilo District Court. Judge M. Kanani Laubach denied Desa’s request for supervised release, maintained his bail at $140,000.00, and ordered him to appear for his preliminary hearing on August 17th at 2:00 p.m.

The investigation was handled by the Area I Vice Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Elyssa Correia-Keltner.

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 concerning illegal narcotics distribution should call the Hawai‘i Police Department Vice Section in East Hawai‘i at (808) 961-2258 or in West Hawai‘i at (808) 326-4646 Ext. 226, or Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300 in East Hawai‘i or (808) 329-8181 in West Hawai‘i.