Man Charged In Kahului Bank Robbery

By Wendy Osher

American Savings Bank Kahului branch on Puunene Avenue. Photo by Wendy Osher.

The man arrested in connection with a bank robbery in Kahului on Tuesday has since been charged.

Jess J. McGowan, 44, was charged with Robbery I, and was being held in lieu of $50,000 bail, according to Maui Police Lt. Wayne Ibarra.

Authorities say the man entered the Kahului Branch of American Savings on South Pu’unene Avenue at around 11:35 a.m., September 6, 2011. According to police reports, he allegedly demanded money from a teller, and requested that it be placed in an envelope.

The man told the teller he had a weapon, however, no weapons were observed, according to Maui Police Lt. Wayne Ibarra.

McGowan was found in the area of Hale Nanea off of Amala Place several hours later. Authorities say he had escaped with an undisclosed amount of money.

An initial court appearance is set for Thursday, September 8, 2011.