Sweep of Uncle Billy’s in Hilo results in citations, arrests

A sweep early this morning of the condemned and dilapidated former Uncle Billy’s Hotel and Resort on Banyan Drive in Hilo resulted in the arrest of two people on outstanding warrants and 10 citations for simple trespass.

More than three dozen officers from the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement, the Hawaii Police Department and the State Sheriff Division teamed up to sweep the three-story building, which is condemned because of unsafe and unsanitary conditions.

Splitting into five teams just after 6 a.m., they swept each room and open areas.

The once-thriving and popular resort is an eyesore and extremely dangerous to be inside. Rubbish, human waste, graffiti, hanging wires, and trip hazards are evident throughout the building.

Officers wore protective shoe coverings, and many used N-95 protective masks.

In less than half an hour the building had been cleared, and people inside were brought to the parking lot where they were cited or arrested, according to the DLNR.

“We deeply appreciate the assistance and coordination with Hawaii County police and state sheriffs to conduct a safe operation in a very unsafe place,” DOCARE Chief Jason Redulla said in a statement. “We can’t stress strongly enough that anyone staying in Uncle Billy’s is subjecting themselves to serious injury due to obstructions, hanging wires, filthy conditions and fire. We hope anyone contemplating returning will take this into consideration.”

DLNR continues to seek a general fund appropriation from the Legislature of at least $12.5 million for demolition of the building.

DLNR has contract security services on the property during nighttime hours, and the department is considering additional security measures, including perimeter fencing and lighting to further secure the premises from trespassers.

The people cited for trespass are scheduled to appear in Hilo District Court on May 19.