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08-14-15 Eight arrested for squatting in Puna home

Hawaiʻi Police Department
Puna District
Captain Samuel Jelsma
Phone: 965-2716
Report No. C15022861

 

Media Release

Hawaiʻi Island police arrested eight Puna residents Friday (August 14) for illegally squatting in a Kurtistown home while claiming Hawaiian Sovereignty rights.

After an extended effort by a Realtor to remove former tenants and others from a foreclosed home on Kapalai Road in Kurtistown, State Sheriffs served an eviction notice on July 25 on the persons squatting in one of two homes on the property. Several of the adults present were confrontational, refusing to identify themselves, but all 12 persons (adults and children) left the property with their belongings. The Realtor later changed the locks on the doors.

On August 5, police conducted a check of the house in response to information that it appeared one of the homes had been reoccupied after the eviction. Police observed a woman outside the house who immediately went inside, secured the door and refused to come out, arguing that she had Hawaiian Sovereignty rights allowing occupancy of the house and property. Police overheard other persons inside the house and advised the occupants that they would be returning.

On Friday (August 14) police arrived and surrounded the structure, prepared to force entry into the home if necessary. The occupants voluntarily opened the door and all eight adults were arrested but refused to be fingerprinted or photographed, claiming Hawaiian Sovereignty.

No children were present. The Humane Society was contacted to remove seven dogs from the property.

The following persons were arrested and charged with first-degree criminal trespassing:

Bail was set for each at $1,000.