Hilo Man Charged After Alleged Shoplifting Incident

Ku Manuia. HPD photo.

Hawaiʻi Island police have charged a Hilo man who was arrested in connection with a robbery Wednesday, Oct. 26, at a store in Hilo.

At 1:23 p.m., South Hilo Patrol officers responded to a report of a robbery outside a supermarket store on Kino‘ole Street.

Police determined that a man had entered the store and concealed merchandise within his waistband. He then exited the store, without paying for the items.

When a 46-year-old employee approached the suspect, the suspect kneed him in the head.

Store employees were able to help apprehend the suspect.

After further investigation, the suspect was identified as 23-year-old Ku Manuia of Hilo.

The victim did not require medical assistance.

At 8:40 p.m. Wednesday, detectives charged Manuia with second-degree robbery and fourth-degree theft.

His bail was set at $5,250.

He remained in custody unit his initial court appearance on Thursday (October 27).