Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Waimea woman, 24 year-old Isabella Gonzales, was charged with robbery and terroristic threatening in relation to a shoplifting incident that involved the use of a simulated firearm, a pellet gun, that occurred on August 1, 2022 at Malama Market in Pahoa.

Reports show at approximately 9:02 a.m,, Puna Patrol officers responded to a report of an active robbery at a business in the 1500 block of Pāhoa Village Road in Pāhoa. The suspect, described as a female in her 20s, reportedly was observed shoplifting from within the business and assaulted an employee when confronted about the theft. 

The woman then exited the business and brandished a firearm at store employees. Due to the suspect’s actions, the business establishment went into a “lockdown” to ensure the safety of employees and customers. The firearm was not discharged, although the suspect made threats towards store employees. The woman was later identified as Isabella Gonzales of Waimea.

As the Complaint alleges, Gonzales was charged with Robbery in the First Degree (in the course of committing theft was armed with a dangerous instrument or a simulated firearm, and threatened imminent use of force against another person with intent to compel acquiescence to the taking of or escaping with the property) and Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree (with the use of a dangerous instrument and/or a simulated firearm). The most serious offense, Robbery in the First Degree, is a class A felony offense which carries a penalty of a twenty (20) year prison term.

Gonzales is scheduled to make her initial appearance on Wednesday afternoon in Hilo District Court. Gonzales remains in custody in lieu of $55,000.00 bail.

The investigation was initiated by Officer Onan Masaoka, Puna Patrol, and felony investigation was handled by Detective Clarence Davies, Area I Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Ha‘aheo Kaho‘ohalahala.

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

“This is the second shoplifting robbery incident in East Hawai‘i in the last week,” said Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen. “Our Office will continue to work with Hawai‘i Police Department to address these threats and hold offenders accountable.”

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.