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Wrong-way driver
threats investigated

By Rod Ohira
Star-Bulletin

If alleged wrong-way driver Benny Belleza is charged, it won't be for causing a major pileup last month on the H-1 freeway but for what occurred prior to the seven-car accident.

Belleza, 56, could be prosecuted for allegedly threatening a security guard at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children shortly before driving onto the freeway in the wrong direction on Jan. 18.

While sitting in his car at the hospital, police say Belleza displayed a crucifix and knife to several people in a threatening manner.

Lt. William Kato who is overseeing the criminal investigation, says prosecutors have accepted the threatening case involving the security guard and may seek an indictment.

But there are no pending charges for driving offenses against Belleza, says Traffic Division Lt. Stephen Kim.

Belleza, who was released from Queen's Hospital earlier this month and is undergoing rehabilitation for possibly crippling injuries, caused seven vehicles to be damaged but no one was seriously injured.