Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that a Puna man, 31-year-old Troy Canda-Raigumai was charged in relation to a shoplifting incident that occurred on December 7, 2021, at the Hilo Walmart.

As the Complaint alleges, Canda-Raigumai, a persistent and multiple offender with seven (7) prior felony convictions, was charged with Theft in the Third Degree (exert unauthorized control over merchandise, valued more than $250, with intent to deprive the owner of the merchandise) and Habitual Property Crime (a person with two or more prior felony property crime convictions, then commits a property crime, under Chapter 708 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, within 10 years of the person’s prior convictions). The most serious offense, Habitual Property Crime is a class C felony offense that carries a maximum penalty of five (5) years in prison.

A review of court minutes indicates that at the time of the alleged offenses, Canda-Raigumai was already out on release pending another unrelated felony matter and revocation of his felony probation. Canda-Raigumai was also arrested in relation to three other outstanding warrants.

Canda-Raigumai will make his initial appearance on theft and habitual property crime charges on Thursday in Hilo District Court. He remains in custody in lieu of $15,400.00 total bail.

The case was initiated by Officer Edwin Namohala, South Hilo Patrol, and the felony investigation was handled by Detective Keith Simeona, Special Enforcement Unit, Area I Criminal Investigation Section, Hawai‘i Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kevin Soong.

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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