Public Defender Withdrawls from Nākālele Kidnapping Case

A preliminary hearing was scheduled today, Wednesday, March 29, at Wailuku District Courthouse for Ashley Ramos, a woman accused of kidnapping and robbing a California couple at Nākālele Point on Wednesday, March 15.

During Wednesday’s proceedings before Judge Kelsey T. Kawano, Deputy Public Defender Zach Raidmae withdrew himself from the case citing a conflict of interest, stating that he had represented two of the witnesses in the past.

Ashley Ramos at preliminary hearing on March 29, 2017. Ramos is charged with Robbery in the First Degree, Unauthorized Entry into a Motor Vehicle, Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle, Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree and Kidnapping. Photo Courtesy: Nicole Schenfeld

Before withdrawing from the case Riadmae asked if Ramos’ bail could be reduced to $50,000, noting that Ramos has been cooperative and has no prior criminal charges. Ramos’ bail was raised from $39,000 to $100,000 by Judge Adrianne N. Heely on Friday, March 24. Judge Kawano said he would follow Judge Heely’s bail recommendation and kept her bail set at $100,000.

Judge Kawano listed three other public defenders to Ramos who has two weeks to find new representation.

Ramos entered the courtroom in tears while wearing an orange jumpsuit with handcuffs around her waist, feet and hands. Sobbing could also be heard in the gallery as Ramos looked towards family members.

Ramos, 19, is charged with Robbery in the First Degree, Unauthorized Entry into a Motor Vehicle, Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle, Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree and Kidnapping.

An unknown male individual, possibly in his 30’s, standing 5’10” to 5’11” tall and weighing approximately 180 pounds with short dark hair is also being sought by Maui police for alleged involvement in the incident.

Judge Kawano rescheduled a new preliminary hearing for Wednesday, April 12.