35-year-old Puna man arrested for property, firearm offenses

Hawaii Island police have arrested and charged 35-year-old Kalei Kona Brooks of Keaau with an array of property and firearm offenses.

After conferring with county prosecutors, police charged Brooks on Oct. 16 with third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug, first-degree burglary, possession of burglary tools, burglary during emergency period, fourth-degree theft, ownership/possession firearm prohibited, place to keep firearm, carry/use of firearm in a separate felony, possession of prohibited weapons, mandatory registration of firearm required, and permit to acquire firearm. His total bail was set at $161,000.

On Oct. 16 shortly before 2:30 a.m., Puna patrol officers responded to a reported active burglary of a residence on Lilikoi Drive in Kurtistown. Upon arrival, officers heard someone within the house, and shortly afterward, a male subject ran out and fled on foot. While officers pursued the subject on foot, police say he was observed discarding a pistol. After a short pursuit, Brooks was arrested without further incident.

During the course of this investigation it was determined that the loaded firearm allegedly in Brooks’ possession had been reported stolen in a separate burglary investigation on Beach Road in Hawaiian Paradise Park, in August.

Police want to remind the public that in light of the current COVID-19 Emergency Proclamation which was declared by Gov. David Ige, there are enhanced penalties for certain offenses. These offenses include, but are not limited to, burglary, theft, criminal property damage, and robbery.