37 year-old Kunia Hassard also know as “Blue,” was charged in relation to a June 20 felony assault and theft incident that took place outside of Ross Dress for Less in Hilo.

Police reports allege that Hassard, used a sickle and sliced and/or stabbed one person in addition to stabbing another individual.

Yesterday afternoon, Hassard made his initial appearance in Hilo District Court where his bail was maintained at $52,000.00 and he was ordered to appear for a preliminary hearing on June 28, 2023.

As the Complaint alleges, Hassard was charged with two counts of Assault in the First Degree (intentionally or knowingly cause serious bodily injury to another person, by stabbing and/or slicing with a sickle), two counts of Assault in the Second Degree (intentionally or knowingly cause bodily injury with a dangerous instrument, a sickle), and a single count of Theft in the Third Degree (theft of a bicycle, the value of which exceeds $250). Assault in the First Degree is a class B felony offense which carries a maximum penalty of a ten-year prison term. If convicted as charged, Hassard is subject to a mandatory prison term and not eligible for probation based on prior felony convictions.

The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The case was initiated by South Hilo Patrol. The felony investigation was led by Detective Paul Mangus, Area I Criminal Investigation Section. Hassard was apprehended with the assistance of Officer Roland Kuamo‘o, South Hilo Patrol, and Detective Kevin Brodie, Area I Juvenile Aid Section, Hawai‘i Police Department.

The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Lucas Burns.

 

HPD Photo