Maui Police Department arrested arrested A man for Trespassing into Lahaina Disaster Area

Arrest made: Man taken into custody by Maui Police Department for trespassing in restricted Burn Zone of Lahaina, Maui. 

Maui Police Department for trespassing in restricted Burn Zone of Lahaina, Maui. (Photo: CBC NEWS)

Despite Prior Warning, Lahaina Man Was Arrested by Maui Police Department for Entering Wildfire Disaster Area

In a report by Hawaii News Now, the Maui Police Department apprehended a 39-year-old man, Josepha Toakala, last Friday for trespassing within Lahaina’s restricted burn zone. Toakala was detained at approximately 8:30 a.m. following a prior warning and escort out of the area four days earlier.

He has been charged for contravening the guidelines laid out in Mayor Richard Bissen’s Second Emergency Proclamation, leading to a bail amount of $200.

In a reiterated statement on Friday, the the Maui Police Department reiterates its commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring resident safety. They also urge the public to adhere to rules and orders that maintain community safety and order, especially during ongoing search and recovery efforts.

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Strict Enforcement Measures: Maui Police Department Warns Against Unauthorized Entry to Disaster Zone, Including Media and Public

A recent statement from the Maui Police Department reveals that they’ve issued warnings to members of the media who entered the affected area. The Maui Police Department has announced a “zero tolerance” policy for trespassing moving forward, encompassing residents, media personnel, and the general public.

This approach could result in citations or arrests due to safety concerns and the perceived disrespect of unauthorized entry. Governor Josh Green’s announcement permits driver access to open parts of Lahaina from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., with limited entry beyond those hours for specific groups like West Maui residents, first responders, Maui Police Department , and employees.

The ongoing restricted access to Lahaina has prompted resident frustration.

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