A Hilo man faces serious charges following a report of domestic violence last week. Hawai‘i Island police arrested 22-year-old Hunta Shaylo Wai‘oli Santos, charging him with multiple counts of abuse following an alleged assault on his girlfriend.
The incident began on the morning of August 16 when, a victim reported being struck by her boyfriend in a parking lot of a Hilo shopping center. Following the altercation, Santos is accused of driving the victim away as he continued to physically assault her. The situation escalated on Wainaku Street and Halaulani Place, where Santos allegedly attacked her again, prompting onlookers to call the authorities.
According to Nixle, the victim detailed being punched, having her hair pulled, and choked to the extent that her breathing was restricted. After Santos left the vehicle at his residence, the victim managed to escape and notify the police, subsequently receiving treatment at Hilo Benioff Medical Center and being released.
Following consultations with the County Prosecutor's Office, Santos was charged on August 17 with felony abuse of a family household member due to strangulation, and four counts of partner-related abuse. He faced a judge for his initial court appearance on August 19. His bail was set at $18,000, reflecting the grave nature of the accusations.
Detective Kevin Brodie of the Area I Juvenile Aid Section has called for witnesses of the assaults to come forward with any information. Those able to provide details can contact him at (808) 961-2373 or via email at [email protected].
