‘This is outrageous’
I was shocked to read the story in the Aug. 24 Tribune-Herald of a robbery in Ocean View: “Court documents describe violent robbery, kidnapping in Ocean View.”
Derick Camacho was arrested after robbing and assaulting a shopkeeper. He (allegedly) beat him, stole his van, raided his store, tied his ankles and hands, and used the victim as a human shield when confronted by police. The shopkeeper had already told him to take whatever he wanted, after Camacho threatened to kill him. He then resisted arrest.
The robber is charged with felonies including first-degree robbery and kidnapping, which carry prison terms of up to 20 years. This violent criminal was immediately released without bail.
The most shocking part for the story is this: “Camacho on July 24 was granted supervised release — a form of cashless bail — over the objection of prosecutors by Kona District Judge Kimberly Taniyama.”
I realize jails are full and incarceration has to be carefully considered in this light. But this is outrageous. Judge Taniyama, who are you protecting, the violent robber or the community?
Mahalo to Tribune Herald and reporter John Burnett for bringing this shocking story to our attention.
Russell Ruderman
Keaau
Safety concerns in Kaumana
Great that the road in Kaumana (Kaumana Drive) has been repaired.
I wonder how long it will be before the many folks who visit Kaumana Cave and cross the road without a crosswalk will lead to an accident.
Often there are more than 15 cars there, and at the same time, traffic is heavy due to Kaumana Elementary School’s dismissal and the long line up of cars to pick up keiki at both entrances to the school.
I have personally witnessed several close calls at both locations and again call on our county officials to please help at both locations to mitigate any disaster before it happens.
A. Gary Gardner
Kaumana