Maui Police Respond to Complaints of Pāʻia Drum Circle, Colorado Man Arrested for Mask Violation

Maui police responded to complaints of public health and safety concerns related to Friday “drum circle” gatherings at Pāʻia Beach Park.

Police say they received numerous complaints via their mpdquarantine@mpd.net portal alleging that “Drum Circle” participants and observers were not wearing their face masks, not following social distancing, and the large group exceeded the allowable amount for outdoor social gatherings.

On Friday, Jan. 15, 2021, officers from the Maui Police Department, and Park Security Officers from the Department of Parks and Recreation, responded to a Pāʻia Beach Park located off Hāna Highway.

Upon arrival, officers say they observed a large group of approximately 60-80 people gathered around approximately 20 drummers, who had their face masks under their chins as they drummed. Upon recognizing that police were present the drummers covered their faces with their masks. Officers issued citations to individuals for Rules and Orders (face mask violation).

Police say Christopher Stern, 31, of Colorado, was observed by officers walking along the beach without his mask on. “Upon contact, Stern refused to cooperate with officers and provided false information regarding his identity,” according to police reports.

At around 6:20 p.m., Stern was arrested for Rules and Orders, pertaining to face mask violation. “At this point, he cooperated and provided officers with his true identity,” police said. An additional charge of Unsworn Falsification To Authorities was added.

Stern was arrested and transported to the Wailuku Station for processing without incident where he posted $4,000 bail and was given a date to appear in court.

Maui Rules and Orders Updated

On Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021, Mayor Michael Victorino’s updated enacted Public Health Emergency Rules regarding indoor and outdoor social gatherings went into effect. The update prohibits groups of more than 5 persons. Face coverings are required, and physical distancing of at least 6 feet must be maintained. 

The Maui Police Department is asking the public for their cooperation in following Mayor Victorino’s current Public Health Emergency Rules; “to help stop the community spread of the COVID-19 virus as a result of large gatherings.”

Anyone found in violation will be subject to citation; and/or arrest for Violation of the Rules and Orders.  Violation of the Rules and Orders is punishable as a misdemeanor, with fines of up to $5,000, a maximum of one year in jail, or both.

Further details on the Jan. 19 rule, including restrictions on business occupancy can be found here.