KPD Operation Leads to Arrests, Removal of Illegal Kapa‘a Campsites

Illegal campsite in Kapa‘a. Photo courtesy of KPD

The Kaua‘i Police Department’s Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team, along with county park rangers and KPD’s abandoned vehicle coordinator, conducted a multi-day operation in Kapa‘a last week, which led to multiple arrests, citations, and the removal of illegal campsites, according to county news release.

The operation was conducted along the Ke Ala Hele Makālae, the multi-use path in Kapa‘a, on Aug. 9 and 10.

During the operation, numerous traffic citations were issued and two arrests were made for outstanding warrants, totaling $55,000 in bail.

Lance Kaaumoana, age 36 of Līhu‘e, was arrested on a Revocation/Modification of Parole/Probation warrant, with bail set at $50,000.

Six derelict vehicles were removed from Kealia Beach. Photo courtesy of KPD

Kym Estacio, age 44 of Hanamā‘ulu, was arrested on warrants for Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the Third Degree, and Promoting a Detrimental Drug in the Third Degree, with bail set at $5,000.

Additionally, a total of six derelict vehicles were removed from the Keālia Beach area.

With the assistance of county park rangers, several illegal campsites were broken down, and several truckloads of abandoned property were removed from the site.

“The areas along our Kapa‘a multi-use path have been an increasing concern for the community,” said Acting Deputy Chief Robert Gausepohl. “I commend and thank our FAST team, park rangers, and our abandoned vehicle coordinator for listening to these concerns and for their ongoing efforts to protect our residents and visitors from harm.”