Painting a New Picture: Kaua‘i Police Clean Up Graffiti in Līhu‘e
Published on March 28, 2025
LĪHUʻE – Officers with the Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) conducted a graffiti clean-up project in Līhu‘e early this morning.
Twelve police officers from the Līhu‘e Patrol District volunteered their time to beautify 7 public spaces along Rice Street on Friday. The officers, some having just completed 12-hour shifts, donned gloves and rolled up their sleeves to scrub graffiti off electrical utility boxes and cover vandalized walls with a fresh coat of paint.
This initiative reflects the strong connection officers have to the community they serve.
“Our officers don’t just work here—they live here, they’re a part of this community and care deeply about its well-being,” shared Lieutenant 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.”
Addressing graffiti helps to 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. The removal of these marks demonstrates a clear commitment to maintaining public spaces and promoting the long-term safety of the community.
“Today’s graffiti clean-up is a testament to the true spirit of Kaua‘i—where we come together as a community to keep our island beautiful, safe, and welcoming for all,” added Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “I’m incredibly proud of our officers for leading by example, showing that community service extends beyond duty—it’s about taking pride in the place we call home and working together to make it a better place for everyone.”
KPD would like to thank the Department of Public Works for preparing the areas that were painted and providing the resources that made the cleanup possible.
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 via KPD’s online reporting form: https://www.kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Police-Department/Patrol-Services-Bureau/Communications-Section/KPD-Online-Reporting.
Before and After: Graffiti-covered wall now restored to its original condition on Rice Street.
Before and After: A utility transformer gets a makeover, removing graffiti and improving the overall appearance.
Before and After: Graffiti removed from another utility transformer, showcasing KPD’s commitment to a safer, cleaner community.
Officers team up to remove graffiti around Līhu‘e.
KPD officers tackle graffiti removal early Friday morning, helping to restore the area’s appearance.
An officer gives a vandalized electrical utlity box a fresh coat of paint.
###