On Saturday evening, Hawai’i Island Police Department took into custody 32-year-old Dylan Jessen Gapp, a resident of Keaau, on suspicions of a series of crimes related to a burglary and auto theft incident at a Puna business. Information obtained by the Hawaii Police Department notifications details that after consultations with island prosecutors, the Area I Criminal Investigation Section detectives proceeded to officially charge Gapp with offenses that include second-degree burglary and first-degree unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle, among others. His bail was set at a steep $116,000.
Gapp now faces more charges, including Failure to Appear and Discharge of Sureties, bringing his bail to $240,000. His arrest started just before Thursday afternoon, when a business owner in Puna reported a stolen company vehicle. Gapp was caught on video breaking into the business and driving off in a Dodge Ram pickup. Hawaii Police Department quickly found the vehicle at the business with Gapp inside, but he fled recklessly, making his situation worse.
On Saturday morning, officers found Gapp again while conducting patrols in the Hawaiian Paradise Park area. He was spotted near the stolen Dodge Ram and attempted to flee on foot, carrying a backpack. However, his escape was short-lived when he fell into a small ditch, leading to his arrest. A search of the backpack revealed drug paraphernalia and a small amount of cocaine, as confirmed by Area I Vice detectives, according to the Hawaii Police Department.
The incident has spurred police to ask for public assistance in gathering more information. Detective David Po’ohina of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section seeks witnesses or individuals with relevant insights to come forward. Those with information can reach him directly at (808) 961-2385 or via email at [email protected]. Alternatively, the Hawaiian Police Department’s non-emergency number is (808) 935-3311.
