Kaua‘i Police Department warns public of jewelry scam

Published on July 10, 2024

LĪHUʻE – The Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) is cautioning residents to remain vigilant regarding potential fraudulent activities on the island.

This caution is prompted by recent incidents in which individuals appearing to be foreign nationals have approached residents in public places offering to sell them jewelry. These incidents are currently under investigation. KPD would like to warn the public to remain alert and take proactive safety measures.

These fraudulent activities bear striking similarities to incidents that occurred in 2022 when KPD successfully apprehended four male suspects engaged in the sale of counterfeit jewelry. Operating under the guise of selling rare or antique pieces at significantly reduced prices, these individuals targeted unsuspecting victims in public venues and residential areas. Victims, believing they were aiding apparent visitors in financial distress, later discovered the jewelry to be counterfeit.

Recent reports indicate similar tactics surfacing on neighboring islands, underscoring the potential spread of these criminal activities.

"These scams exploit the kindness and aloha spirit of Kaua‘i’s people," Lieutenant Kennison Nagahisa of the Criminal Investigations Division said. "We urge everyone to stay vigilant and promptly report any suspicious behavior or individuals using this approach. It's important to educate your loved ones about these scams, especially as kupuna are often targeted in such crimes.”

Safeguard yourself and your loved ones by following some proactive safety tips:

• Be Vigilant: Remain alert and aware of your surroundings. If you are approached by a suspicious individual, pay attention to their appearance, vehicles they may be using, or any distinctive features such as accents.
• Verify Identities: If approached with offers that seem too good to be true, verify the person’s identity and question the offers’ legitimacy before making any purchases or commitments.
• Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately report any suspicious behavior or individuals to the Kaua‘i Police Department at 808-241-1711.
• Question Unusual Situations: If someone claims to be in distress or in urgent need of money, ask questions and direct them to seek assistance from authorities.
• Educate Loved Ones: Share information about common scams with family and friends, particularly vulnerable groups like keiki and kupuna.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on local news and alerts regarding fraudulent activities in the community.

If you observe any suspicious activity, please report it to KPD Dispatch at 808-241-1711. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i at 808-246-8300, submit a tip at cskauai.org, or use the Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i P3 Tips Mobile App. Your assistance is vital in keeping our community safe.

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