As the Complaint alleges, Bennett, a repeat offender who has prior felony convictions for Robbery in the Second Degree and Unauthorized Control of Propelled Vehicle, was charged with Habitual Property Crime (committing a property crime within ten years of being convicted of two prior felonies), Unauthorized Control of Propelled Vehicle in the First Degree (unauthorized control of a Dodge Challenger without the owner’s consent), and Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree (distribute any amount of methamphetamine). If convicted as charged, Bennett faces sentencing to a mandatory prison term as a result of his prior felony convictions.

Bennett was also arrested for two outstanding Circuit Court warrants that were issued after he failed to appear for resentencing for revocation of his felony probation earlier this month.  On January 27th, Bennett appeared in Hilo Circuit Court for return on the Circuit Court warrants, where he was granted supervised release again over Prosecutors’ objections,.

Bennett is scheduled to make his initial appearance today in Hilo District Court.  Despite being granted supervised release in his Circuit Court matters, Bennett remains in custody in lieu of $45,000.00 bail for his new felony charges.

The case was initiated by Officer Keaolapule Fessenden-Grace, Puna Patrol, and the felony investigation was handled by Detective John Balberde, Area I Criminal Investigation 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 to assist local law enforcement should call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.