A Big Island bail agent has been issued a cease and desist order by the state for allegedly withholding premium payments and cash collateral deposits for her own use.

Hawai'i Insurance Commissioner J.P. Schmidt issued the order for Monica Joyce Pacheco, noting also that she operated an unregistered and unlicensed bail agency under the name Big Island Bonding. The firm was not authorized by her former employer or the Hawai'i Insurance Division, the state said.

"Insurance is based on trust and our investigation indicates that Pacheco violated this trust with her clients and their families," said Schmidt in a press statement.

"A family or friend working to help an individual make bail and meet the requirements of bail is in a complicated and stressful situation. Licensed agents have a duty to help, and should never take advantage."