HANALEI — Several suspects have been arrested on charges related to a rash of burglaries in the Hanalei and Ha‘ena district.
The Kaua‘i Police Department initiated multiple arrests in recent weeks. The most notable suspect, Justin Berry, was arrested Friday, according to a county news release.
Berry, age 28, was arrested shortly before midnight on Aug. 10 at a vacation rental in Ha‘ena. A repeat burglar known to area, he was captured with the assistance of community members in communication with the police.
“We appreciate the assistance and cooperation of surrounding residents and business people,” said Kaua‘i Police Chief Darryl Perry. “We know it can be frustrating for victims of theft, especially when they know who the perpetrator is and it appears that nothing is being done.
“It can be equally frustrating for our officers who are unable to share specific details of ongoing investigations with the victims, as we have to be careful not to hinder our case,” Perry said. “As law enforcement officers, we must ensure these individuals are not only arrested, but that the circumstances surrounding the arrest allow for proper prosecution.”
Officers recovered stolen items from the residence involving Berry, and they are believed to be connected to multiple car and home break-ins. Stolen item — including a laptop, camcorder, backpacks, clothing and miscellaneous items — were found along with illegal drugs at the scene.
Berry was charged with two counts of second-degree theft, one count of fourth-degree theft, first-degree criminal trespass, promoting a dangerous drug and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
Through ongoing police efforts, multiple arrests have been executed, including the July 14 capture of 35-year-old Kyle Matsumoto and 31-year-old Maile Hermstad. Both individuals were arrested for first-degree unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle related to a car break-in at Waikoko Lookout last month.
Noel Kinney, age 23 of Anahola, was arrested Monday after he reportedly broke into a Hanalei home earlier that day. Prosecutors charged Kinney with first-degree burglary, theft of a credit card and unauthorized possession of confidential personal information.
“Patrol officers in the Hanalei district have been committed to executing these arrests for quite some time and while these individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty, we are confident that they will all be justly prosecuted,” Perry said.
The Kaua’i Police Department reminds residents that a Community Safety Town Hall Meeting will take place at the Princeville Community Center from 6 to 7:30 p.m. today. The meeting, aimed at addressing public safety questions and concerns, will be jointly hosted by the Kaua’i Police Department, the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney and the Kaua’i County Council.
