Volcano man, teen arrested for alleged kidnapping

A Volcano man and a 17-year-old male juvenile were arrested and charged with kidnapping after an incident that occurred in Volcano early Thursday morning.

Joshua Ikaika Vierra, 35, also was charged with impersonating a police officer, assault and a slew of firearms offenses, according to police.

The two allegedly conspired to assault the juvenile’s 44-year-old biological father, who resides on Oahu.

Upon the father’s arrival at the Volcano residence, he was allegedly confronted by Vierra, who identified himself as a federal agent. Vierra then placed zip ties on the victim’s wrist and ankles, according to police.

Over the course of several hours, the two suspects assaulted the victim, police said. However, during a break in their activity, the victim was able to reach his cellphone and dial 911.

Upon arrival, officers saw the victim bound and gagged and arrested Vierra and the juvenile without incident.

The victim was transported to the Hilo Medical Center for treatment. After being treated for his injuries, he was subsequently released to police custody and arrested for outstanding warrants.

Detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigation Division executed a search warrant on the Volcano residence and recovered a silencer, two handguns and a rifle, all with no serial numbers, which are known as “ghost guns”.

Vierra’s bail is set at $270,765. He remains in police custody pending his initial court appearance scheduled for Monday in Hilo District Court.

The male juvenile, whose name was withheld due to his age, was charged with kidnapping and abuse of a family household member. He is being detained by the state in a juvenile detention facility on Oahu.