Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Puna man, 47-year-old Lawrence Castro, was charged for possession and attempted distribution of methamphetamine in relation to a May 6th incident in Puna.

As the Complaint alleges, Castro, a repeat and persistent offender with three (3) prior felony convictions, was charged with five (5) offenses including Attempted Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the First Degree (attempted distribution of over an eighth of an ounce of methamphetamine), Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Second Degree (possession of over an eighth of an ounce of methamphetamine), two (2) counts of Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Third Degree (possession of any amount of methamphetamine), and Prohibited Acts Related to Drug Paraphernalia.

If convicted as charged, Castro faces sentencing to a mandatory minimum prison term without the possibility of parole. At the time of his arrest, Castro was on supervised release for two (2) unrelated felony matters in Hilo Circuit Court.

Castro is scheduled to make his initial appearance today in Hilo District Court. He remains in custody in lieu of $95,000.00 bail.

The case was initiated by Officer Spencer Thomas, Puna Patrol, and the felony narcotics 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.