Authorities arrest possible suspect in Kapa‘a car break-ins

Authorities have made a significant development in an investigation of multiple vehicle break-ins in the Kapa‘a area.

In response to a recent surge in vehicle burglaries, detectives from the Kaua‘i Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division and officers with the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement conducted a joint operation to apprehend those responsible for about 25 reported break-ins at local trailheads.

Charles Aban, 29, was identified as a possible suspect in some of these incidents.

Aban was arrested on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, without incident on an active warrant for unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle in the first degree and criminal property damage in the second degree. He is currently being held with bail set at $320,000.

The investigation remains active.

“We greatly appreciate the support provided by the Department of Land and Natural Resources during this operation,” said Criminal Investigations Division Capt. Lance Okasaki. “We also want to thank the public who provided information during this investigation, as their vigilance plays a crucial role in keeping our community safe.”

Residents and visitors are reminded to lock vehicles, secure valuables out of sight, and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.

Anyone who has information related to these incidents is urged to come forward. Tips can be reported to Kaua‘i Police Department at 808-241-1711.

Those who wish to remain anonymous can submit a tip to Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i at (808) 246-8300, or use the P3 Tips Mobile App, available for Apple and Android devices.