Man accused of speeding away from police in stolen vehicle

WAILUKU — Police arrested a man who allegedly nearly hit pedestrians and a bicyclist in Paia and fled from police in a stolen vehicle.

Douglas Balinbin, 30, of Wailuku was charged with first-degree unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle, firstdegree unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle, second-degree theft, two counts of first-degree resisting an order to stop a motor vehicle, two counts of reckless driving and driving without a license.

He was arrested Tuesday night on a warrant charging him with the offenses that occurred at about 7 a.m. Nov. 9.

Balinbin allegedly was driving more than 60 mph in a 30mph zone on Baldwin Avenue, almost hitting two pedestrians and a bicyclist, Deputy Prosecutor Jeffery Temas said during Balinbin’s initial appearance Friday in Wailuku District Court.

The driver didn’t stop for a police officer who activated lights and sirens on a police vehicle while chasing the 1998 Honda CR-V before calling off the pursuit for safety, Temas said.

Then a motorcycle officer activated his lights and siren after he heard the Honda passing him, Temas said. “Once again, this defendant did fail to yield,” Temas said.

He said the defendant also failed to yield to an officer in a yellow vest who had to step out of the way to avoid being hit by the vehicle.

The vehicle was abandoned and Balinbin allegedly was picked up by two others, Temas said.

“The state does believe he is a danger to the community,” Temas said.

He said Balinbin has 27 convictions, including four for felony abuse, 16 for contempt of court and two for failure to appear.

While the prosecution asked for bail to remain at $50,000,

Balinbin asked to be released on supervision or have his bail reduced. He said he is working and takes care of his mother.

Judge Michelle Drewyer kept bail at $50,000.

She noted that the alleged crimes occurred during one of the busiest times in Paia. “It’s crowded all the time,” she said. “That behavior is extremely dangerous.”

Balinbin was ordered to have no contact with the Honda owner and to stay away from Kihei Villages, the location that the vehicle was stolen from last month.