Fire, police give December statistics; residents press HPD on parking and noise enforcement

The Honolulu Fire Department and Honolulu Police Department presented December public-safety reports at the Waipahu Neighborhood Board meeting and answered residents’ questions about recent visible fires, noise complaints and parking enforcement.

Captain Lanchenko of the Waipahu Fire Station reported December activity including several structure and nuisance fires, four wildland fires, 19 activated alarm calls and “299, almost 300” medical responses. He urged home electrical safety, recommending one heat-producing appliance per wall receptacle, avoiding power strips for major appliances, checking cords, and hiring licensed electricians for electrical work.

Lieutenant Keoni Hong of the Pearl City Police Station reviewed December and November statistics for motor vehicle thefts, burglaries, thefts and car break-ins. He described a Dec. 24 incident where officers arrested a person at an encampment off the Pearl Harbor bike path for possession of a ghost gun, criminal trespass and an outstanding warrant.

During public comment residents pressed HPD about enforcement of a recent city rule requiring 20 feet of clearance at corners and the department’s handling of noise/party calls. One resident said officers told homeowners enforcement was at the officer’s discretion and described multiple 911 calls where officers either did not return or issued only a warning. Lt. Hong advised callers to request a supervisor or call back 911 if unsatisfied and explained that HPD does not carry decibel meters; the department typically issues a warning on first contact and may make an arrest for disorderly conduct on repeated returns within the same time period.

The departments fielded follow-up questions about visible fires near the Cultural Garden and the limits of officer authority on noise and parking enforcement. Lt. Hong offered to follow up on officer conduct if names were provided.