Trespassers Arrested in Vacant Leilani Estates Home

David Paio and Tina Yoon. HPD photos

A 47-year-old man and his 47-year-old female accomplice were arrested by Hawaiʻi Island police on Christmas Day, 2108, in Leilani Estates following complaints of trespassers by residents on Maile Street.

Police investigating the 11:18 a.m. incident near the 3500 block, found David Kainoa Paio and Tina Yoon in a vacant home.

Police determined that the couple unlawfully remained within the dwelling and were arrested for trespassing. During the investigation police also found a firearm, and Paio was arrested for possession of the altered weapon.

In June of this year, Leilani Estates was devastated with the lava flow that forced some residents to vacate their homes. Some of the unoccupied residences have become a haven for homeless people and a focal point for criminal activity.

The Hawaiʻi Island Police Department, working in cooperation with the residents and the Leilani Community Association, has started to clear the area of people that occupy homes illegally. The community association has also begun efforts to notify the owners of the vacant homes to take action in safeguarding them and posting no trespassing signs to assist the police in enforcing trespassing laws.

Captain Kenneth Quiocho, commander of the Puna District, called this cooperative effort with the community and Leilani Community Association “a partnership in preventing crime and safeguarding the area from criminal opportunities.”

“We have met several times on the issues related to the community concerns in Leilani, and are working toward keeping the area safe for the residents who have already been through such a tragic event with the lava and damage to their homes, neighborhoods and lives,”Captain Quiocho said. “I cannot thank them enough for their patience, cooperation and proactive approach in safeguarding their neighborhood.”

Hawaiʻi Island police in the Puna District intend on conducting several such projects as a way of “sweeping” the neighborhoods, safeguarding the community, and encouraging members of the community to get involved.

One way to so is through their local neighborhood watch group.

For information on establishing a Neighborhood Watch group or for assistance in locating Neighborhood Watch groups in the Puna District, contact Officer Jeremy Kubojiri or Duwayne Waipa of the Community Policing Section at (808) 965-2716.

This information was provided by the authorities. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.