Joint Police Operation Leads to Arrest in Kapa‘a Vehicle Thefts
Kaua‘i Police Criminal Investigations Division detectives and DLNR DOCARE executed a joint operation addressing a recent surge of vehicle burglaries near trailheads in the Kapa‘a area, resulting in the arrest of a suspect. The arrest and ongoing investigation matter to residents and visitors because trailhead parking areas remain vulnerable, and authorities urge anyone with information to report tips to the Kaua‘i Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
Detectives from the Kaua‘i Police Criminal Investigations Division, working in partnership with Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement officers, carried out a joint operation aimed at a string of vehicle break ins near trailheads in the Kapa‘a area. The operation followed a pattern of reported thefts that had raised concern among hikers, residents and property owners who use trailhead parking.
Authorities identified 29 year old Charles Aban as a possible suspect and arrested him on December 5, 2025 on an active warrant for Unauthorized Entry of a Motor Vehicle in the First Degree and Criminal Property Damage in the Second Degree. Bail was set at 320,000 dollars. The investigation remains active as detectives continue to follow leads and review reports related to the recent surge.
The collaboration between county criminal investigators and state conservation enforcement underscores the geographic and operational overlap where crimes have occurred. Trailhead parking areas often sit at the interface of public recreation and private property, and these locations have been targeted in the recent incidents. That pattern has practical consequences for local residents, kamaaina businesses that rely on safe recreational access, and the visitor economy that depends on predictable public safety.
Local law enforcement emphasized prevention measures for community members and visitors. Secure vehicles, remove valuables from sight, lock doors and report suspicious activity immediately. These steps are the first line of defense against opportunistic property crime, particularly at popular trailheads and beach access points.
Anyone with information or tips about the vehicle burglaries is asked to contact the Kaua‘i Police Department or submit information to Crime Stoppers. Continued cooperation between the public and law enforcement will be critical as the investigation proceeds and as agencies work to restore a sense of safety around Kapa‘a trailheads and parking areas.
