Bail raised to $50K for man charged with assault of girlfriend

WAILUKU — Bail was increased to $50,000 for a Lanai man who was arrested for allegedly assaulting, abusing and threatening his girlfriend.

Carlo Tolentino, 20, of Lanai City was charged with seconddegree assault, felony abuse, first-degree unlawful imprisonment, abuse and second-degree terroristic threatening.

Tolentino allegedly used a lighter to burn the woman’s leg during an argument that started Friday night and continued into the early-morning hours Saturday, according to a declaration filed in court to support the charges.

Tolentino also made threats toward the woman and her family, Deputy Prosecutor Lewis Littlepage said during Tolentino’s initial appearance Monday in Lanai District Court, convening in Wailuku.

“We do believe he is a significant danger to the community in this case,” Littlepage said in asking for bail to be increased from $7,200 to $50,000.

While Tolentino has no prior convictions, he is charged with two counts of second-degree sexual assault and violation of privacy in a pending case, Littlepage said. He said Tolentino had posted a $100,000 bail bond to be released in that case.

Tolentino asked for bail to remain at the lower amount or to be released on supervision. He has been working in construction and was looking for a residence, said Deputy Public Defender Gustavo Gonzalez.

Judge Kirstin Hamman increased Tolentino’s bail to $50,000. He was ordered to stay away from the woman and her residence in Lanai City. Tolentino also was ordered not to consume alcohol or illegal drugs.

He appeared by videoconference from the Maui Police Department for the hearing Monday