Search Warrant on Hakalau Home Yields Drugs, 1 Arrest

A search warrant executed on a Hakalau resident yielded various drugs along with one arrest.

On April 29, the Hawai‘i Police Department’s Area I Vice Section carried out the warrant on the home of Stanley “Tosh” Richard Bento, 58, of Hakalau. During the search, investigators recovered 1.1 grams of methamphetamine, heroin residue, methamphetamine smoking pipes, drug paraphernalia, and ammunition.

Bento was taken into custody. On Friday, April 30, Bento was officially charged with two counts of third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug, prohibited acts related to drug paraphernalia, and two counts of ownership prohibited (ammunition).

Bento appeared in South Hilo District Court for his initial appearance on Monday, May 3, where the judge confirmed bail at $70,000. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for Wednesday, May 5.

Police continue to urge the public to call the vice/drug tip hotline at 808-934-VICE (8423) with information relating to illicit drug use and distribution, as well as vice-related issues, including gambling, prostitution, and other related crimes. The hotline is available 24-hours and is anonymous. More information can be found here.