KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii: A short article in the Kailua Village Business Improvement District newsletter reports that an alert citizen helped police catch two males spraying graffiti around the historic village.

From the February 2012 newsletter:

Late last month an emergency call came over Kona Metro’s scanner (Kona Metro is contracted by KVBID to provide District security services). An alert private citizen witnessed two males spraying graffiti. The two suspects were apprehended by Kona Metro and were subsequently arrested when police arrived on scene. Before they were caught in the act, they’d sprayed several buildings on Kuakini Highway, Alii Drive and Henry Street.

“Graffiti is an epidemic,” said Kona Metro President Linda Orr. “And with the help of our community’s watchful eyes and ears, we can reduce and eliminate this unsightly problem that racks up costs for businesses, utility companies and taxpayers.”

Orr says that perpetrators must be caught in the act and there must be a witness to the offense.  Private citizens should never confront a suspect, but rather call 911 and report the suspect’s location and anything distinct such as clothing, shoes, tattoos that may be visible, the number of persons in sight, and their gender. Citizens can also alert police or Kona Metro if they see where spray cans might be tossed or hidden following the crime. Finger prints can often be lifted from the evidence to strengthen convictions.

The mission of the Kailua Village Business Improvement District is to work cooperatively to improve and maintain the physical appearance and aesthetics of public rights of way, open spaces, and parks, by increasing cleanliness and security, so as to attract long term sustainable business and community activity in Historic Kailua Village.