A 26-year-old Kurtistown man is facing a host of charges after reportedly being found sleeping within the driver’s seat of a stolen vehicle Saturday in Puna.
Dominick Gavin Paul Gonzado is facing charges of unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle, operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant, driving without a valid driver’s license, and third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug in connection with the incident that began as a welfare check. His total bail was set at $22,000.
Shortly after 1:30 a.m. Friday, Puna Patrol officers observed a vehicle on the shoulder of 31st Avenue in Hawaiian Paradise Park with the engine running, headlights on, and a male sleeping within the driver seat. Officers contacted Gonzado in the vehicle to check on his welfare and found him sleeping, with the vehicle in gear, according to the Hawaii Police Department.
Officers determined that Gonzado had an outstanding warrant, and the vehicle had been reported stolen in late October. Upon placing Gonzado under arrest, he was reportedly found to be in possession of a glass smoking pipe with residue.
Unable to post bail, Gonzado remained in police custody pending his initial appearance in Hilo District Court on Monday afternoon where he was granted supervised release.