Kona resident, official dispute confrontation

KAILUA-KONA » Hawaii County Council Chairman Stacy Higa and Kona resident Matthew Binder have filed police charges against each other, each accusing the other of harassment.

Binder was the first to file, saying Higa allegedly ordered two associates to beat up Binder but they did not attack.

Higa said he was at a benefit gathering for Kona Community Hospital put on by Councilwoman Virginia Isbell Sunday when he saw Binder taking pictures of him about 75 feet away.

Binder, who supports Isbell's campaign opponent Brenda Ford, says he was taking pictures because he believed Higa was illegally helping Isbell's campaign.

Binder said he walked over to Higa and asked to take his picture.

Higa said Binder walked over and announced he had a right to take Higa's picture anywhere he wanted to.

Higa said he told Binder if he came into Higa's home with the camera, Higa would smash it.

Binder said Higa got mad and ordered two men with him:

"Bust his camera and kick his a--."

Higa denies it.

Binder said the two men followed him until Binder found a friend to serve as a potential witness. Then he and the friend left.

Police are asking anyone who saw the events to contact 326-4646, extension 228, or Crime Stoppers at 329-8181.