Painting a new picture: Kaua‘i police clean up graffiti in Līhu‘e

A dozen Kaua‘i Police Department officers painted over graffiti tagged on walls and utility boxes in Līhu‘e.

The cleanup took place on March 28 when officers with the Līhu‘e Patrol District – some having just completed 12-hour shifts – volunteered their time to beautify seven public spaces along Rice Street.

“Our officers don’t just work here — they live here, they’re a part of this community and care deeply about its well-being,” said Kaua‘i Police Lt. Anthony Abalos. “Cleaning up graffiti is just one of the ways we show our commitment to the community we protect, while also taking initiative to improve the place we call home.”

Officers scrubbed tags off electrical utility boxes and gave a wall along Rice Street a fresh coat of green paint.

Police officials say addressing graffiti helps prevent further vandalism and reinforces a sense of security and order in the community.

“Vandalism such as graffiti, if left unchecked, can signal neglect and foster a sense of disrepair,” officials stated. “The removal of these marks demonstrates a clear commitment to maintaining public spaces and promoting the long-term safety of the community.”

The Kaua‘i Police Department encourages all residents to report graffiti or any other public issues through the department’s non-emergency contact number at 808-241-1711. Reports can also be made online through the department’s online reporting form here.