Kailua Security Zone Precedes President’s Arrival

Law enforcement officers from the Coast Guard will enforce a temporary security zone at Kailua Bay beginning as early as today. The security measures are being implemented in coordination with the planned arrival of President Barack Obama, who is expected to wrap up work with Congress before taking time off for the holidays in Hawaii.

Click on image to enlarge. Kailua Security Zone.

The first lady and the couple’s two daughters arrived in the islands over the weekend, and are staying in Kailua on Oahu.

The maritime security zone extends from Kapoho Point westward to the shoreline at Namala Place road, near the Castles surf spot. It also includes a portion of Kailua Bay, and the adjacent channel beginning near Kapoho Point to an area south of the North Kalaheo Avenue Road Bridge.

The security zone will remain in effect from 10 a.m. today through 8 p.m. on January 5, 2011. Yellow buoys are being placed in the water and in the channel for visual references of the zone.

Violation of the security zone carries a hefty penalty of up to $32,500 for each civil violation. Criminal penalties carry an even greater penalty of up to 25 years in jail and up to $250,000 in fines. Vessels found in violation are subject to seizure and will be held liable for any monetary assessments.

The security zone is being implemented by the Coast Guard in coordination with the Honolulu Police Department, the Marine Corps base Hawaii, and other law enforcement agencies under the direction of the U.S. Secret Service.

(Posted by Wendy Osher)