LIHUE — Information from the public led to the capture of a fugitive who had been on the run for over a week on Kauai. Police arrested Kapaa’s Ray “Kuna” Harada, 43, near Kahili Beach Wednesday night. He assaulted the
LIHUE — Information from the public led to the capture of a fugitive who had been on the run for over a week on Kauai.
Police arrested Kapaa’s Ray “Kuna” Harada, 43, near Kahili Beach Wednesday night. He assaulted the arresting officer and tried to escape, but following a struggle, police detained him, the county said in a press release.
“It is through the community’s assistance that he is now off the streets, hopefully for a very long time,” Police Chief Darryl Perry stated.
The officer injured during the arrest was treated by medics at the scene.
On Sept. 29, police attempted to capture Harada but he resisted and bit an officer before escaping, even though officers deployed a Taser to try to detain him.
“I’m very proud of our officers for their diligence in capturing this fugitive, who is a repeat offender and danger to the community,” Perry said. “I would also like to thank the public for their assistance in providing information on Mr. Harada.”
Police originally wanted Harada on two separate bench warrants from multiple drug related charges that were issued with a total bail of $200,000.
Police issued a notice to the public over the weekend requesting information on Harada’s possible whereabouts, which led them to Wailapa Road in Kilauea Wednesday evening.
He was arrested on multiple offenses relating to assault, resisting arrest, escape, and criminal contempt of court. Harada is being held at the Kauai Community Correctional Center in lieu of $500,000 cash bail.
His initial court appearance has not been scheduled.
