A Mountain View man appeared in court Tuesday after allegedly stabbing a man in Fern Forest subdivision last Saturday.
Anthony Rescia, 21, was denied a request for supervised release at his Tuesday arraignment on charges of assault in the first degree and attempted murder in the second degree.
While Rescia’s attorney, William Heflin, requested Rescia be granted supervised release or have his $55,000 bail reduced, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Adrienne Shergill objected to the request because of the violent nature of the charges.
Citing police reports, Shergill said Rescia allegedly had an argument with the victim in the incident, Dean Hess, a 26-year-old Fern Forest man, on Jan. 19. Later that day, Rescia allegedly arrived at Hess’ residence, this time with a knife, and got into another argument with Hess.
As the argument escalated, Rescia allegedly stabbed Hess in the chest, Shergill said.
Hess was transported to the Hilo Medical Center Intensive Care Unit. Shergill said Hess’ injuries include a lacerated diaphragm and a lacerated pulmonary artery, both potentially fatal injuries.
Shergill also said sources close to Rescia reported that he is known to have a bad temper and “violent tendencies.”
Heflin did not contest Shergill’s description of events, but clarified to the judge that Rescia did not come to Hess’ home for a fight, but only intended to pick up some items he left there.
Because of the severity and seemingly premeditated nature of the alleged offense and Rescia’s reported demeanor — as well as a series of unrelated contempt of court charges — Shergill argued that Rescia not be granted supervised release.
Judge Harry Freitas agreed, denying Rescia’s request and maintaining bail at $55,000.
Rescia remains in custody and was ordered to return to court Thursday for a preliminary hearing.
Email Michael Brestovansky at mbrestovansky@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
