HPD Issues 1 Citation Over Labor Day Weekend for COVID-19 Emergency Rule Violation

Hawaiʻi Police Department issued one citation over Labor Day weekend for a violation of Hawaiʻi County’s gathering rules in relation to COVID-19.

The fine was for $250 due to the illegal use of a canopy at Hilo Beach Park. County officials say a few other verbal warnings were issued, to which park-goers were compliant.

Due to the surge in COVID-19 cases, Mayor Mitch Roth walked back gathering restrictions in an effort to stem the spread of the virus. The new restriction allows for gatherings of 10 indoor and outdoor. Additionally, no popup tents or canopies are allowed.

Click here to read the emergency rule in its entirety. hawaiicounty.gov/coronavirus.

Ahead of the long Labor Day weekend, county and state leaders pleaded with Hawaiʻi residents to abide by emergency rules in their respective counties. Enforcement over the weekend was a county and state joint effort and consisted of increased patrols and presence in and around county and state beaches and parks.

Multiple tips were called into the HPD non-emergency line, to which investigations found beach- and park-goers in compliance.

“We are extremely proud of the community for stepping up over the holiday weekend and taking this virus seriously,” said Mayor Mitch Roth. “Because of the efforts of everyone islandwide to limit gatherings, we are confident that we will not see a spike in cases over the coming weeks as a direct result of community gatherings in celebration of Labor Day. That said, as Mayor, it is incredibly humbling to see our residents step up time and time again to do what is right for everyone in a broader effort to protect and care for each other. It is really because of the aloha in and around our communities are we able to continue to thrive through this pandemic and beyond.”

The countyʻs emergency rules remain in effect until Oct. 4, unless extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended.