30 year-old Brandon Sanchez of Puna was arrested and charged in relation to the theft of a Hyundai Elantra that was originally reported stolen on June 30.

According to police reports, Sanchez approached the vehicle’s owner and asked him for a ride prior to committing the theft.

Last week, Sanchez made his initial appearance in Hilo District Court where his bail was maintained at $90,000.00.

As the Complaint alleges, Sanchez is charged with Theft in the First Degree (theft of a motor vehicle), Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle in the First Degree, and Habitual Property Crime. The most serious offense, Theft in the First Degree, is a class Bfelony offense which carries a penalty of either a ten-year prison term or four years probation and up 18 months in jail.

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

The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Ryan Caday

 

Photo credit: Hawaiʻi County Prosecuting Attorney