A Kona man has been apprehended and faces charges for the recent theft of an electric bike, while the hunt for an associated female suspect continues. The 22-year-old, identified as Luke Deniz, is linked not only to the e-bike heist at a Kona business but also to subsequent property damage incidents at local financial institutions, the Hawai‘i Police Department reported.
The theft came to light on October 7 at 11:21 p.m. after Kona patrol officers responded to a retail business in the 75-5600 block of Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, alerted by a shattered glass front door. Upon arrival, officers found the doorway in ruin, glass strewn about, and a substantial rock within, according to the Hawai‘i Police Department media release. The surveillance and a witness's account led to the arrest of Deniz, yet, the female suspect remains at large; described as standing 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing 130 pounds, with black hair, brown eyes, and a distinctive tattoo on her left ankle.
The storeowners confirmed the loss of two Yamaha e-bikes, each valued at $3,000, adding to an already tense scene. Video surveillance from the business was integral in identifying Deniz, who was seen in prior police engagements. The same footage also captured the female suspect's image as she stole an e-bike and departed.
Deniz was found near Ka‘eka and Manawalea Street without the e-bike and was taken into custody. Detectives later linked him to additional vandalism that same day at two Kona-area financial institutions, where he caused $4,000 in damages by breaking a glass door and a drive-up ATM with a rock.
Following consultation with the County Prosecutor’s Office, Deniz now faces multiple charges, including second-degree burglary, second-degree theft, and three counts of second-degree criminal property damage. He was set to make his initial court appearance on October 9, where his bail was established at $25,000.
Anyone with information about the female suspect is encouraged to contact the Hawai‘i Police Department, with potential rewards for relevant tips through Crime Stoppers. Updates on this investigation and other criminal activities will be provided as details emerge.
