Police to enforce park ban on alcohol

Ala Moana drinkers are already getting $100 citations

Some Ala Moana Park visitors enjoyed the most expensive drink of their lives yesterday as police began enforcing a Fourth of July liquor and fireworks ban in the park.

Police doled out at least 15 open-container citations carrying a fine of $100 each as of yesterday afternoon, a number that police expect to soar as the holiday wears on.

But that won't stop many revelers from enjoying what they see as an inalienable part of today's Independence Day celebrations.

"I've already told my people about the drinking policy, but they're still going to try. I can't control what they do," Sam Spencer said as he set up tents and a barbecue for a party expected to draw about 60 people.

"It's a little unfair, but it is the law, I guess," he said.

Both drinking and fireworks are prohibited in city parks, but the bans go largely unenforced.

This year, however, plainclothes officers are out in force. They want to prevent a repeat of last year, when the park, a popular July Fourth party spot due to its front-row view of the city's annual fireworks show, was the scene of a number of fireworks injuries and alcohol-related incidents.

"They go hand in hand. You don't get intoxicated and handle fireworks. It's a recipe for disaster," said Capt. Frank Fujii of the Honolulu Police Department.

Police had issued no citations for fireworks as of yesterday afternoon, but expected to be busier at night, when overnight camping was allowed. Fireworks violations carry a $2,000 fine.

However, alcohol consumption, which is much easier to conceal, looked like it would keep police busier.

"A lot of the people say they didn't know it was illegal, but we're not buying that. They just put in 20 new signs in the park saying it was illegal," said police Sgt. Larry Santos.

Aron Onaga, who has joined friends for July Fourth parties at the park for the past four years, said he supports the enforcement efforts, on safety grounds.

But he expects to down a few beers with friends as usual, lifting up a bag to reveal some concealed cases of beer.

"You just gotta act respectful. If you're being blatant and causing trouble, that's one thing. But if you're mellow like us, I don't think its such a big deal," he said.

Police may be in for a busy day and night. Up to 50,000 people are expected to gather at the park to watch the 15th annual fireworks show.