$86K Worth of Equipment Stolen From Kauai County

Kauai County officials are reviewing security measures and community lending policies after the thefts of equipment worth $86,000.

A pickup truck, office equipment, tools and an emergency generator were stolen in a two-week period starting July 7. The $40,000 Ford F-250 truck and $10,000 in office equipment and plumbing tools were stolen from the Department of Public Works plumber’s office in Lihue.

Law enforcement found the truck badly burned and unusable.

The $36,000 generator was stolen on July 18 from the Koloa Fire Station.

Community organizations often borrow generators and other equipment at no charge. The thefts are prompting the county to revisit the practice, the Garden Island reported Friday.

“It’s pretty amazing and egregious that this thing happened – it’s an expensive mistake,” Kauai County Councilwoman JoAnn Yukimura said.

County Engineer Larry Dill said the equipment is crucial for plumbing services and to prepare for natural disasters. He said a police report was filed but he’s not optimistic.

The Department of Public Works is looking to add motion sensor lights at the facility where thefts occurred, Dill said, and officials want to get estimates for security alarms and surveillance systems.

Councilman Mel Rapozo said he’s concerned about a lack of security and made a plea for the generator’s return.

“I know somebody knows where that generator is right now,” he said. “If you turn it into the fire station tonight under the cover of darkness, no questions asked, we promise not to prosecute you. I don’t know if I can do that, but I just did.”