A Puna man arrested, charged in connection with unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle

According to police reports, a resident on Kinoʻole Street in Hilo reported that her vehicle had been rummaged through and personal items removed on Sept. 3.

Shortly after the incident, Newman was found approximately a block and a half away from the residence, and was then arrested and charged in connection with an unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle.

He made his initial appearance in Hilo District Court on Thursday afternoon, where his bail was set at $43,000. Newman was ordered to appear for a preliminary hearing on Monday, Sept. 8, according to Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen.

As the complaint alleges, Newman is charged with unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle in the first degree, theft in the third degree, and unauthorized possession of confidential personal information.

Unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle in the first degree and unauthorized possession of confidential personal information are both class C felony offenses. They carry a penalty of either a five-year prison term or four years probation and up to 12 months in jail.

The charges are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The investigation was led by Officer Joshua Gouveia from South Hilo Patrol, and the case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Jeff Malate.

Anyone with information to assist local law enforcement can call Crime Stoppers at 808-961-8300.