Kaua‘i police have questioned suspects in connection with vandalism of commercial buildings in Kekaha that has sparked plans for a July 1 march by residents. “The suspects have been forewarned and they will be under scrutiny,” said Jose Bulatao Jr.,
Kaua‘i police have questioned suspects in connection with vandalism of commercial buildings in Kekaha that has sparked plans for a July 1 march by residents.
“The suspects have been forewarned and they will be under scrutiny,” said Jose Bulatao Jr., a promoter of the walk.
Residents became upset and outraged when they found building walls of the Kekaha Menehune Mart and the old Kuramoto store and portions of the Kekaha Plantation Mill smoke stack marked by graffiti last week.
Residents also have complained about car racing they believe occurs on town roads at all hours of the day, threatening their peace and safety.
The planned walk is a way to show the residents won’t tolerate crime and “want their town back,” Bulatao said.
But the police investigation has helped to bring some calm back to the one-time plantation town, Bulatao said.
“A lot of people think the police aren’t doing anything. But that is not the case here,” he said. “The police are looking for those who are responsible and are getting to the bottom of this.”
Lt. Hank Barriga, who heads the police substation in Waimea, was not available for comment yesterday.
Bulatao praised officer Darla Abbatiello for having taken the lead in the investigation, attempting to identify the culprits for possible prosecution.
“She has had a positive impact,” Bulatao said. “We are truly blessed to have such dedication and commitment to the community.”
The vandalism and ongoing crime have created a groundswell of support for the nighttime march, he said.
“We will be trying to hit anywhere from 50 to 100 people for the walk,” he said.
The march was initially planned to start and finish at the Kekaha Neighborhood Center, but it has been relocated to the parking lot at the Menehune Food Mart because the neighborhood center was reserved earlier for a family function, Bulatao said.
“We are going to organize at 6:30 p.m. and begin marching at 7:30 p.m.,“ Bulatao said.
Erik Coopersmith, secretary to the Kaua‘i Westside Watershed Council and one of the march coordinators, suggested participants wear white-colored clothing as a show of solidarity and as a symbol of “light overcoming darkness.”
The mile-long march will start at the Menehune Food Mart, wind its way along Alae Road, Kekaha Road and Elepaio Road and finish at the store.
Those interested in participating in the march can call Bulatao at 337-9135.
