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DEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
REIKO MATSUYAMA, MANAGING DIRECTOR
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News Release
For Immediate Release: February 23, 2026
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COUNTY OF KAUA'I
KAUA'I POLICE DEPARTMENT
ELLIOTT K. KE - CHIEF OF POLICE
(808) 241-1900
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KPD Addresses Report of Suspicious Activity in Kapa‘a
LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) is aware of social media posts describing an alleged attempted kidnapping in the Kapa‘a area.
On February 20, 2026, at approximately 10:00 p.m., officers responded to the Sheraton Kaua‘i Coconut Beach Resort in Kapa‘a following a report of a suspicious person attempting to approach hotel employees in the parking lot. The individual was met by hotel security and left the area prior to police arrival. No physical contact occurred between the suspicious person and any employees or guests, and no injuries were reported.
Responding officers conducted an on-scene investigation and found no evidence that a kidnapping or other criminal activity had occurred. The incident remains under investigation as a suspicious person case.
“We understand that encounters like this can be unsettling and want to assure the community that reports of suspicious behavior are taken very seriously,” stated Assistant Chief Darren Rose. “We appreciate the public’s vigilance and encourage anyone who observes suspicious activity to immediately contact KPD.”
KPD encourages the community to remain aware and take simple steps every day to stay safe. These tips can help:
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Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the people and places around you, and trust your instincts if something feels off.
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Have a plan. Educate family members on how to deal with strangers and get help if they feel unsafe.
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Protect yourself against misinformation. Consider the source and seek out facts from verified sources.
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Go with your gut. If you see something suspicious, report it to the police by calling KPD Dispatch at (808) 241-1711. If it is an emergency, call 911.
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Media Contact:
If you are a member of the media with an inquiry for the Kaua‘i Police Department or its representatives, please email kpdpio@kauai.gov. Mahalo!
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