LIHU‘E – Kaua‘i police arrested four men on Tuesday in connection to the sale of counterfeit jewelry.
LIHU‘E – Kaua‘i police arrested four men on Tuesday in connection to the sale of counterfeit jewelry.
According to preliminary investigations, Kaua‘i police received several reports earlier this week of individuals approaching people in public places and at residences, attempting to sell rare or antique jewelry. The suspects were reportedly telling victims they were visitors and were selling jewelry because they were in need of money for reasons such as they lost their wallet or their IDs were stolen. Victims later discovered the pieces they purchased were fake, and reported the fraudulent activity to police.
A witness was able to identify the license plate of a vehicle allegedly involved in one of the reported scams. Police later located the vehicle at a Kapa‘a hotel, and further investigations led officers to detain four men associated with the vehicle.
The men were brought into police custody without incident on Tuesday. They were later released pending investigation, otherwise known as “RPI.” An RPI means that more time is needed, beyond the maximum 48 hours of holding in police custody, for police to investigate the case before formal charges are made.
While police investigations remain ongoing, the public is reminded to stay vigilant of scams and to exercise extreme caution if someone approaches you and attempts to sell you jewelry.
“In addition to these four men, preliminary investigations reveal that there may be more individuals on Kaua‘i that are committing these crimes,” said Assistant Chief Bryson Ponce of the Investigative Services Bureau.
If you or someone you know has fallen victim to this jewelry scam or suspects suspicious activity, please contact Kaua‘i police dispatch immediately at 808-241-1711.
