A 40-year-old homeless man has been charged with an alleged robbery at an automated teller machine in Hilo.
A 40-year-old homeless man has been charged with an alleged robbery at an automated teller machine in Hilo.
At 11:45 a.m. Sunday, police responded to a report of a robbery in progress in the parking lot of American Savings Bank on Pauahi Street.
A 53-year-old Hilo man was using an ATM when another man reportedly entered his parked car. When the victim confronted the suspect, he was struck in the face and the car’s door panel was damaged. The suspect then fled on foot.
The victim sustained minor injuries but declined treatment, police said
During the incident, a witness called 911 and followed the suspect, providing his location to police.
At 11:55 a.m., police arrested Dominic Simon Freitas. He was charged Monday afternoon with second-degree robbery, unauthorized entry to a motor vehicle, assault and criminal property damage. His bail was set at $38,000, and his initial court appearance is scheduled for today.