Kaua’i Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Unit and Ice Task Force officers, acting on a credible public tip, arrested two Wainiha residents arriving at Lihu’e Airport. They were carrying nearly a pound of crystal methamphetamine, or ice, on their bodies, said
Kaua’i Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Unit and Ice Task Force officers, acting on a credible public tip, arrested two Wainiha residents arriving at Lihu’e Airport.
They were carrying nearly a pound of crystal methamphetamine, or ice, on their bodies, said a KPD vice officer who asked not to be identified.
Edward Kauo, 35, and Catlin Simpson, 20, both of Wainiha, were arrested and charged with methamphetamine trafficking and possession of drug paraphernalia, and could face up to 20 years in prison on the Class-A felony trafficking offense, the officer said.
While Simpson had no criminal record until the Monday night arrest, Kauo had nine prior felony arrests and eight earlier misdemeanor arrests, though no prior convictions. Some of his previous-arrest cases are pending, the officer said.
Some of Kauo’s other arrests were for promoting dangerous drugs and promoting detrimental drugs, kidnapping, unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle and intimidating a witness, the officer said.
“He’s a pretty colorful character,” said the officer.
More citizens are willing to call police and offer information, because they know officers will investigate tips and keep their identities confidential, the officer said.
“In more recent times, more people are willing to tell us what they know,” said the officer.
The estimated street value of the seizure is between $200,000 to $225,000, the officer said.
A similar bust happened in July, when about half a pound of ice was seized at the airport, and an arrest was made.
Cynthia Kaneshiro, staff writer, may be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 252) or ckaneshiro@kauaipubco.com. Edward Kauo Catlin Simpson
