Cop Corner

Maui Police Department News Release

As the end of the school year approaches, the Maui Police Department would like to extend our congratulations to the graduating class of 2016. With the increase in celebrations, police will be placing an emphasis in the detection of underage drinkers, distracted drivers, and conducting sobriety checkpoints.

An underage drinker is defined as any person below the age of 21 years who consumes or is in possession or custody of liquor in any public place, gathering, beach or park, or in any motor vehicle on a public highway.

Hawaii’s law bans the use of hand-held mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. This includes, but is not limited to, cellular phones, MP3 players, personal digital assistants, navigation devices and electronic tablets. Drivers under the age of 18 are further banned completely from talking on cell phones, even while using hands-free devices. The fine for violating this law starts at $257, with higher fines in school/construction zones.

Operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant is when a person operates or assumes actual physical control of a vehicle: (1) while under the influence of alcohol in an amount sufficient enough to impair the person’s normal mental faculties or ability to care for the person or guard against casualty; (2) while under the influence of any drug that impairs the person’s ability to operate the vehicle in a careful and prudent manner; (3) with .08 or more grams of alcohol per two hundred ten liters of breath: or (4) with .08 or more grams of alcohol per one hundred milliliters or cubic centimeters of blood. The minimum fine amount for this offense is $1000.00.

Don’t let a happy occasion be marred by tragedy. Work with us to ensure your safety, celebrate wisely.