Puna traffic stop leads to drug and firearms charges

(BIVN) – A Hilo man was arrested following a traffic stop in Puna and charged with attempted distribution of methamphetamine, driving under the influence of a drug, possession of heroin and cocaine and prohibited possession of gun.

Prosecutor Kelden Waltjen announced that Jantzen-James Mata, 39, was arrested following a routine traffic stop along Highway 11.

“After executing a narcotics search warrant, police recovered more than 400 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, US$1,238, a loaded Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol and ammunition,” police reports state.

From the Hawaii County Prosecutor’s Office:

As the complaint alleges, Mata is charged with attempt to promote a dangerous drug in the first degree (attempt to distribute one-eighth ounce or more of methamphetamine), promotion of a dangerous drug in the first degree (possess one ounce or more of methamphetamine), three counts of promoting a dangerous drug in the third degree (possessing any amount of methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin), operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant (under the influence of any drug), place to keep a pistol or revolver, possession of a firearm with intent to facilitate the commission of a crime felony drug charge, carrying or possessing a loaded firearm on a public highway, possession or possession of a prohibited firearm and two counts of possessing or possessing prohibited ammunition (caliber 9 mm and .357).

The most serious offenses, namely promotion of a dangerous drug in the first degree, attempted promotion of a dangerous drug in the first degree, and possession of a firearm with intent to facilitate the commission of a felony drug offense, are all Class A felony offenses that carry a maximum penalty. sentence of twenty years in prison. Prosecutors have indicated that if convicted as charged, they would seek an extended prison sentence.

The charges are merely allegations and the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Prosecutors say Mata is expected to make his first appearance in Hilo District Court Monday afternoon. He remains in custody on $611,000.00 bail while awaiting his initial appearance.