MEDIA RELEASE

The Hawai’i Police Department is warning the public about a recent rash of auto thefts and car break-ins at recreational areas in lower Puna.

Most of the incidents have been at locations frequented by large numbers of visitors, such as Ahalanui Beach Park, Pohoiki Beach Park, McKenzie Beach Park and Champagne Ponds.

Since the beginning of the year, the lower Puna area has had 23 reported cases of unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle and 13 reported cases of unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle. Police caution the public to lock their cars and not to leave valuables inside.

Police ask that anyone with any information about suspicious activity call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.