10 Acres of Papaya Trees Destroyed in Puna

By Wendy Osher

Big Island police are investigating the destruction of 10 acres of papaya trees in Puna.  The incident was reported to authorities on Tuesday, July 19, 2011.  The damage covered three adjoining properties, belonging to separate owners in the Kapoho area.  Additional adjoining papaya fields were left undamaged.

The incident is near the area where 8,500 trees were destroyed a year ago.

Authorities say the trees appear to have been chopped down with a machete sometime between Monday morning and Tuesday morning.

The incident remains under investigation.  Detectives have not yet determined the monetary loss associated with the damage.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Big Island Police at 961-2252. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.