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Police sweep for squatters in Leilani Estates nets 7 arrests

Nina Wu

Hawaii island police said seven people wanted for outstanding warrants have been arrested and charged following a recent sweep of the Leilani Estates area in Puna.

Police conducted the sweep on Friday as part of a continued effort to safeguard the neighborhood of Leilani Estates, specifically aimed at unlawful occupants of residences. Additional sweeps are planned.

Police arrested Victoria Sanchez-Barr, 32, of Pahoa Village, along with Claude Carvalho, 33, and Corina Gorospe, 32, both of Hawaiian Beaches. Police also arrested Tatiana Cortes, 25, of Hawaiian Beaches, James Bachman, 38, of Nanawale Estates, Sione Sipingao, 29, of Leilani Estates, and Terrah Brott, 32, with no permanent address.

The public to encouraged to provide information on the unlawful occupancy of residences by calling Officer Jeremy Kubojiri of the Puna District at 965-2716, or the Police Department’s non-emergency number at 935-3311. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Hawaii island’s Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

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