Kaua‘i police investigate jewelry scam on Garden Isle

Authorities are warning the public about a jewelry scam, similar to one that occurred on Kaua‘i two years ago, circulating on the Garden Isle.

According to Kaua‘i police, individuals appearing to be foreign nationals have approached residents in public places offering to sell them jewelry. These incidents are currently under investigation.

According to police, these fraudulent activities bear “striking similarities” to incidents that occurred in 2022 when authorities apprehended four male suspects caught selling 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 fake.

“These scams exploit the kindness and aloha spirit of Kaua‘i’s people,” said Kaua‘i police Lt. Kennison Nagahisa of the Criminal Investigations Division in a press release Wednesday. “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 kūpuna are often targeted in such crimes.”

Recent reports indicate similar tactics surfacing on neighboring islands, underscoring the potential spread of these criminal activities. Kaua‘i police offered the following tips to avoid being scammed:

• 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, report it to Kaua‘i police 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.