Honoka'a Man Charged with Jeep Gladiator Theft

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Kole Race-Joaquin, a 43-year-old man from Honoka'a, Hawaii, has been arrested and charged in relation to the theft of a Jeep Gladiator that was reported stolen while parked in Hilo on December 18, 2025. Police recovered the vehicle on March 12 and Race-Joaquin now faces charges of Theft in the First Degree and Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle in the First Degree.

Why it matters

Vehicle theft is a persistent problem in Hawaii, with the state ranking among the highest in the nation for auto theft rates. This case highlights the efforts of local law enforcement to track down and apprehend suspected thieves, as well as the serious legal consequences they can face if convicted.

The details

According to the complaint, Race-Joaquin was arrested by Puna Patrol officers on March 12 and the stolen Jeep Gladiator was recovered at that time. He was arraigned in Hilo District Court, where his bail was set at $70,000 and he was ordered to appear for a preliminary hearing. The more serious Theft in the First Degree charge he faces is a class B felony that carries a maximum 10-year prison sentence, and he would not be eligible for probation if convicted.

• The Jeep Gladiator was reported stolen on December 18, 2025.
• Race-Joaquin was arrested by Puna Patrol officers on March 12, 2026.
• Race-Joaquin made his initial court appearance on March 19, 2026.

What’s next

The judge will decide at Race-Joaquin's preliminary hearing whether the case will proceed to trial.