Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Puna man, 18-year-old Jeremiah Hepp, was arrested and charged in relation to an incident that occurred at a business on Pahoa Village Road on March 21, 2022.
At the time of his arrest, Hepp was also wanted on an outstanding warrant of arrest for another unrelated felony matter.
As the Complaint alleges, Hepp was charged with seven (7) offenses including Burglary in the Second Degree, Attempted Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle in the First Degree, Assault in the Third Degree, Assault in the Second Degree, Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree, Unauthorized Entry into a Motor Vehicle in the Second Degree, and Resisting Arrest.
Hepp appeared in Hilo District Court on Tuesday afternoon. The Court denied Hepp’s request for a bail reduction, his bail was maintained at $43,000.00, and he was ordered to appear for a preliminary hearing on March 24, 2022, in Hilo District Court.
The investigation was handled by Officers Melvin Vargas and Terence Scanlan, Puna Patrol, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Heipua Ah Loy.
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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