The Honolulu Police Department has reportedly taken into custody a federal fugitive sought on numerous charges, including aggravated identity theft and conspiracy to defraud the United States. Kalehuaiwiliiamekamaile “Maile” Montez, aged 36, was apprehended in the Halawa area last Friday, as confirmed by an announcement by the Honolulu Police Department.
Montez, earlier identified in an Honolulu Police Department fraud investigation in 2024, had been arrested on October 21 the same year, facing two counts of Aggravated Identity Theft, Access Device Fraud, Forged Security, False Statement to Financial Institution, and Conspiracy to Defraud the US. However, she managed to fleet while on pre-trial release in November 2024, spurring the issuance of a federal warrant. Alongside the federal warrant, Montez had two $15,000 and one $20,000 state cash-only warrants, amounting to a $50,000 total.
With a history of 10 prior felony convictions, the capture of Montez by Honolulu Police Department and federal agencies signals a continuous effort to protect the public and enforce the law against such fraudulent activities. The Honolulu Police Department's press release pointed out that the arrest was "without incident at 10 a.m.," implying no harm came to officers or the fugitive during the operation.
The successful apprehension of Montez is attributed to "the ongoing commitment of HPD and federal agencies to protect the public and uphold the law," according to the Honolulu Police Department press release. The department also expressed its thanks to "the officers and specialized units for their dedicated efforts and collaboration in preventing more community members from falling victim to fraud." As the case against Montez continues to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the impact that such crimes can have on the community and the relentless pursuit of justice by law enforcement agencies.
