Federal probationer faces drug, gun charges

MARTINES
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Police have arrested and charged a 48-year-old Hilo man on federal probation with numerous drug and firearm offenses.

At about 2 p.m. on Tuesday, the East Hawaii Vice Section arrested Chico Martines, of Hilo, following the execution of a narcotics search warrant at his residence near Hilo Intermediate School.

During the search, officers allegedly found 3.9 ounces of methamphetamine, 2.8 ounces of marijuana, 2.4 ounces of marijuana concentrate, a semi-automatic pistol with an obliterated serial number, ammunition, and $1,700 in cash.

Martines was charged with two each counts of first-degree promotion of a dangerous drug and first-degree promotion of a harmful drug, promotion of a controlled substance near a school, prohibited possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of an illegal pistol magazine, and alteration of a firearm’s serial number.

At Martines’ initial court appearance Friday, Hilo District Judge Kanani Laubach maintained his bail at $560,000 and ordered him to return to court Tuesday for a preliminary hearing.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact Detective Keith Simeona at (808) 961-2340 or Keith.Simeona@hawaiicounty.gov. Those who prefer anonymity may call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.