Man Arrested After Allegedly Crashing Stolen Car in Kīhei

A Kula man is scheduled to appear in Wailuku court today for arraignment and entry of a plea after he allegedly crashed a stolen vehicle in Kīhei last week.

According to court records, Jonathan Awai, 32, was charged with: unauthorized control of propelled vehicle and third degree promotion of a dangerous drug–both considered Class C felonies.  He is also accused of misdemeanor violations of accidents involving damage to a vehicle/property and driving without a valid driver’s license; as well as fourth degree criminal property damage, which is a petty misdemeanor.

The charges stem from a motor vehicle collision on Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 27, 2019 on the Piʻilani Highway at Piʻikea Avenue.

Kīhei Patrol Officers who were dispatched to the scene responded to find the responsible vehicle fled the area. Police say the vehicle was later located in the parking lot of the Piʻikea Shopping Center.

After a brief search, the operator of the vehicle, later identified as Awai, was arrested and transported to the Kīhei Police Station for processing.