Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that Prosecutors indicted 33 year-old Julissa Herrera of Hilo, with felony possession of dangerous drugs, including methamphetamine, oxycodone, and heroin, and the attempted distribution of methamphetamine. The charges stem from a March 10, 2023 incident in Hilo.

Herrera is scheduled to make her initial appearance in Hilo Circuit Court on Monday afternoon. She remains in custody in lieu of $60,000.00 bail.

As the Indictment alleges, Herrera was charged with Attempted Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the First Degree (attempted distribution of over one-eighth ounce or more methamphetamine), Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree (possess over one-eighth ounce or more methamphetamine), four counts of Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Third Degree (possess any amount of methamphetamine (two counts), heroin, or oxycodone), and a single count of Prohibited Acts Related to Drug Paraphernalia. The most serious offense, Attempted Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the First Degree is a class A felony and carries a penalty of either a twenty-year prison term or ten years probation and up to two years in jail.

The case was initiated by South Hilo Patrol Officers Sean Phelan, Devon Manuel, and Johnathan Masutani, and the felony investigation was led by Detective William Brown, Area I Vice Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Patrick Muñoz.

The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendants are 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) 934-8423 or in West Hawai‘i at (808) 329-0423, or Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.