Some people have been entering the closed Sacred Falls State Park in Hawaii despite clear warning signs and locked gates. The Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement is responding by increasing enforcement against those who ignore the park's closure, according to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Despite the 1999 rockslide that killed eight people at Sacred Falls, people continue to enter the closed area. Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement Chief Jason Redulla said, “How many times do we have to tell people to stop going into Sacred Falls?” Warning signs are posted throughout the area, but violations still happen. Redulla said, “I have directed the Oahu Branch to take strong enforcement action on any closed area violations at Sacred Falls, including arresting violators.” Those caught may face fines of up to $1,000 or up to 30 days in jail, as reported by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
“People who enter Sacred Falls are not only endangering themselves, they also endanger the safety of first responders if they get into trouble,” Redulla said. Sacred Falls remains closed due to safety concerns following a deadly rockfall in 1999. Entering the area is a petty misdemeanor and can lead to fines or jail time. Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement officers continue to enforce the closure, as stated by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
