Hawaiʻi Island police detectives have charged 45-year-old Justin Makoto Pittullo, following a nearly 9-hour standoff in Hilo late Friday night, March 15, 2024.
The charges against Pittullo stem from an incident reported shortly after 10:30 p.m. on Friday night, when Hilo patrol officers responded to a Ponahawai Street residence for a report of a man threatening a female tenant, which was in violation of an active temporary restraining order.
"His bail is set at $14,000." - Hawaiʻi Island police detectives
Responding officers determined the male suspect, later identified as Pittullo, had barricaded himself within the upstairs portion of the residence where he resides, and refused to exit to speak with officers. He also verbally threatened the officers and threatened to burn and blow up the house.
"Due to the threats made by Pittullo, and his refusal to exit the residence, officers evacuated the downstairs tenants, and secured a perimeter." - Hawaiʻi Island police detectives
Crisis Negotiators continued to establish communication with Pittullo throughout the night in attempts to have him voluntarily surrender.
"Shortly after 7:30 a.m. Saturday morning, March 16, 2024, Special Response Team officers arrested Pittullo, without incident." - Hawaiʻi Island police detectives
There were no reported injuries to Pittullo, tenants of the residence, or police personnel.
"A portion of Ponahawai Street was closed during this investigation; however, has since been reopened. Police thank the public for their patience and understanding." - Hawaiʻi Island police detectives
Pittullo remains in police custody in lieu of bail. He is scheduled to appear in Hilo District Court on Monday afternoon, March 18.
"Anyone who may have information regarding this incident is asked to call Detective David Poohina of the Area I Criminal Investigation Section, at (808) 961-2385 or email at david.poohina@hawaiicounty.gov."