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MPD makes arrest after using helicopter, drones in search for suspect

Maui police arrested a 26-year-old man Tuesday on a series of charges after searching for him from the air and on the ground Monday in Haiku.

Police said Tuesday that the man escaped from a court-ordered medical facility placement Saturday and stole an idling vehicle in the area of 55 Maui Lani Parkway in Wailuku.

According to police, the man stole the vehicle while an 83-year-old woman was being helped into it. The woman suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene by medical personnel.

Police said officers later attempted to stop the man in traffic, but he fled toward the Haliimaile area.

On Sunday, police reportedly found the stolen vehicle abandoned at a residence in Haiku.

On Monday, officers returned to the area after receiving a tip the man was in the vicinity, and police deployed drones, a K-9 unit and the department’s helicopter in an effort to find the man.

In a statement issued Monday, police asked nearby residents “to remain vigilant and cooperate with any lawful instructions provided by officers,” while adding that more information would be released as it became available.

On Tuesday, police said they did not believe there was any threat to public safety and that details about the search were not released Monday to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation and ensure officer safety.

According to police, the man was arrested on charges of unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle, second-degree assault, second-degree escape and resisting an order to stop a motor vehicle in the first degree.

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