KPD remind public to stay vigilant during holidays

LIHU‘E — Kaua‘i police remind the public to remain vigilant during the holiday season.

“Criminals like to use the holidays to take advantage of unsuspecting victims,” said Kaua‘i Police Department Investigative Services Bureau Assistant Chief Bryson Ponce. “They use this time of year to prey on distracted and unsuspecting victims in an attempt to steal their belongings.”

KPD recommends that community members be aware of suspicious activity at all times. That means keeping a close eye on belongings, especially while shopping.

“As grocery stores and malls become busier this time of year, criminals use the opportunity to watch for moments when an individual is distracted,” said Ponce.

“We’ve had instances in the past where people have left handbags or wallets in their shopping carts, only to turn away for a split second before realizing that their items are gone.”

Kaua‘i police also encourage community members to keep their homes and vehicles locked at all times. “Burglars and thieves prefer to take the simplest routes possible to steal items, so please don’t make it any easier for them,” said Ponce. “If you leave a car unlocked and your valuables inside, there’s always a chance that someone could take them.”