On Wednesday evening, July 14, 2021, Kahooilihala turned himself in at the South Hilo police station. He had been sought by police for an outstanding warrant and for questioning relative to an assault investigation.
After conferring with county prosecutors, Kahooilihala was charged with one count each of first-degree assault and second-degree assault. His bail was set at $35,000. He was also arrested and charged on a warrant for contempt of court with bail being set at $250.00
The assault charges stem from an incident that occurred on Monday, July 12, shortly after 3:30 p.m., in the parking lot of an apartment complex on Maile Street in Hilo. The 21-year-old male victim reported that he had been punched with “brass knuckles,” numerous times to the head, face, and body, by Kahooilihala. The victim was transported to the Hilo Medical Center emergency room where he was treated for his injuries, which were classified as “serious and substantial”.
Kahooilihala remains in police custody pending his initial court appearance scheduled for Thursday, July 15, in South Hilo District Court.