Police make arrests in store robbery caught on video

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Police arrested two persons seen in surveillance images released publicly who were wanted for a robbery at a Prince Kuhio Plaza department store in Hilo on April 18, Good Friday.

Police arrested two persons seen in surveillance images released publicly who were wanted for a robbery at a Prince Kuhio Plaza department store in Hilo on April 18, Good Friday.

Police said the girl was seen concealing an item then leaving the store without paying for it.

After store employees confronted her and a male companion outside the store and attempted to escort them inside, the male companion threw one of the employees to the ground, causing injuries to his head and ribs. The pair then fled the area on foot toward Makaala Street.

On Tuesday, the two turned themselves in at the Hilo police station. Police arrested 19-year-old Obed Kamanao Kuahiwinui Jr. of Hilo on suspicion of robbery and theft. He was taken to the Hilo police cellblock while detectives investigated. A 15-year-old girl was arrested and released to her parents without charges.

On Wednesday, detectives charged Kuahiwinui with second-degree robbery and fourth-degree theft. His bail was set at $5,250.

He made his initial court appearance was on Thursday.