HONOLULU -- Community volunteers form the nucleus of a harbor watch group that is increasing its presence at Heeia pier.

For the last four months the members have been patrolling the small boat harbor with some help from Honolulu Police and the state’s conservation enforcement officers.

“We definitely appreciate any extra assistance. The eyes on the ground 24/7 helps us to do our jobs better and to make it safer for the community,”, said state conservation enforcement officer Carolyn Curry.

One boat owner said his lines were cut and then set adrift. Others have had to deal with repeated break-ins.

According to harbor watch coordinator Anita Balch, “Seven boats got hit in the same night. I got $1,000 worth of stuff taken off my boat.”

“My outboard motor was stolen off the boat and I had a pressure washer,” boat owner David Crammer said.

Officer Carolyn Curry caught two teens trying to dump construction material illegally at the pier.

“I don’t think they will come back to do anything illegal in the future," Curry said.

The message is clear Balch said, “The harbor is for everyone but it has to be respected. Obey the rules and regulations.”