HILO — A Mountain View man appeared in court after allegedly stabbing a man in Fern Forest subdivision last Saturday.
Anthony Rescia, 21, was denied a request for supervised release at his Tuesday arraignment on charges of assault in the first degree and attempted murder in the second degree.
While Rescia’s attorney, William Heflin, requested Rescia be granted a supervised release or have his $55,000 bail reduced, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Adrienne Shergill objected to the request because of the violent nature of the charges.
Citing police reports, Shergill said Rescia allegedly had an argument with the victim in the incident, Dean Hess, a 26-year-old Fern Forest man, on Jan. 19. Later that day, Rescia allegedly arrived at Hess’ residence, this time with a knife, and got into another argument with Hess.
As the argument between Rescia and Hess escalated, Rescia allegedly stabbed Hess in the chest, Shergill said.
Hess was transported to the Hilo Medical Center Intensive Care Unit. Shergill said Hess’ injuries include a lacerated diaphragm and a lacerated pulmonary artery, potentially fatal injuries.
Shergill also said sources close to Rescia reported he is known to have a bad temper and “violent tendencies.”
Heflin did not contest Shergill’s description of events, but clarified to the judge Rescia did not come to Hess’ home for a fight, but only intended to pick up some items he left there.
Because of the severity and seemingly premeditated nature of the alleged offense and Rescia’s reported demeanor — as well as a series of unrelated contempt of court charges — Shergill argued Rescia not be granted supervised release.
Judge Harry Freitas agreed, denying Rescia’s request and maintaining bail at $55,000.
Email Michael Brestovansky at mbrestovansky@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
