Hawaii Island couple accused of imprisoning 14-year-old

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Two people on Hawaii Island are facing up to 10 years in prison for allegedly restraining a minor last year.

Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced the charges Tuesday against 47-year-old Alexander Aquino and 37-year-old Amy Aquino, both Captain Cook residents.

They face felony charges for allegedly chaining a 14-year-old to their porch in August 2020. Prosecutors say the teen was locked outside of the home on several occasions.

First-degree unlawful imprisonment is defined as knowingly restraining another person, leading to the risk of serious bodily injury, prosecutors said, which is a Class B felony.

They are also accused of failing to care for the child in light of the incident.

The couple appeared in Kona Circuit Court last week Friday. They were ordered to return for a jury trial on Feb. 1.

For those concerned about a child’s safety, the Child Abuse and Neglect reporting line can be reached by calling 1-888-380-6688.

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