Waimea couple charged for drug and fireworks offenses

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LEXA ARTUYO
KENDELL ARTUYO
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Police on Saturday charged a Waimea couple with more than a half-dozen drug offenses as well as illegal fireworks violations.

After a monthlong investigation, Area II Vice Section investigators served a search warrant on a residence in the 64-5300 block of Puu Nanea Street that was occupied by 31-year-old Kendell Artuyo and his 31-year-old wife, Lexa Artuyo.

Police allegedly recovered nearly 1.9 grams of fentanyl mixture, 30 Suboxone pills having a total street value of more than $2,200, and more than 25 pounds of illegal aerial fireworks.

Police also seized more than $2,572 in currency for forfeiture.

The two were arrested Friday and their two minor children were taken into protective custody for their safety, according to police.

Kendell Artuyo was charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, four drug offenses, and one count of one count of fireworks prohibitions. His bail was set at $72,250.

Lexa Artuyo was charged four counts of endangering the welfare of a child, four drug offenses, and one count of fireworks prohibitions. Her bail was set at $84,500.

Lexa Artuyo was released on her own recognizance due to a medical issue. Kendell Artuyo posted bail. Both are due in Kona District Court on Feb. 2 for their preliminary hearing.