There may be a plea deal for a 24-year-old Hilo homeless man accused of kidnapping and robbing another homeless man at knifepoint.
There may be a plea deal for a 24-year-old Hilo homeless man accused of kidnapping and robbing another homeless man at knifepoint.
Brandon Paul Hauoli appeared for arraignment and plea on Wednesday before Hilo Circuit Judge Greg Nakamura. Hauoli is charged with kidnapping, first-degree robbery, motor vehicle theft, removing the identification marks of a moped, third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug, and third-degree theft.
Hauoli’s court-appointed attorney, Kanani Laubach, told the judge that a plea agreement is being worked out with prosecutors.
“At this time I would request a change of plea and sentencing (hearing) within … 60 days,” she said.
A change of plea hearing was scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on April 16.
According to court documents filed by police, John Stuard, a 40-year-old homeless man, told police that on Nov. 16 at about 4:30 p.m., Hauoli had pulled a knife on him on Puueo Street in Wainaku, put Stuard in handcuffs and made him get into a car.
Stuard reportedly told officers he was driven up Waianuenue Avenue to a spot in front of Hilo High School’s track, where Hauoli demanded that Stuard give him money, to which Stuard reportedly replied that he didn’t have any. Hauoli then allegedly took Stuard’s backpack, emptied it, and took all of his medication.
Police wrote that Stuard identified Hauoli through photographs.
Documents state that police arrested Hauoli on Feb. 2 at about 8:40 a.m. after a traffic stop on Minoaka Place. Police searched Hauoli and reportedly found a glass smoking pipe and a pouch, both allegedly containing residue that tested positive for methamphetamine.
Documents state that the moped turned out to be stolen in late January and that the vehicle identification number had been scratched off.
Kidnapping and first-degree robbery are Class A felonies punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment, while vehicle theft and third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug are Class C felonies punishable by up to five years in prison.
Hauoli, who has no prior felony convictions is in custody at Hawaii Community Correctional Center in lieu of $20,000 bail.
Email John Burnett at jburnett@hawaiitribune-herald.com.