MEDIA RELEASE

Big Island police are investigating the destruction of thousands of dollars worth of papaya trees in Puna.

At 10:33 a.m. Wednesday (June 30), Puna District officers responded to a report of papaya trees damaged at a farm in Kapoho. The scene is located off Route 132, left on Alohalani, two miles in on the left.

Once at the scene, Officers determined that approximately 8,500 trees ranging in height from 6 to 10 feet had been cut to the ground. The estimated monetary value for the damaged trees is $100,000.

Police are asking for the public’s help in providing leads to identify possible suspects for this crime. Persons with information are encouraged to call Officer Marcos Santos at the Kea’au police station at 966-5835.

Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona. All calls to Crime Stoppers are kept confidential.