Kauai police seek Princeville man wanted in burglary, theft cases

Kaua‘i police are asking residents to be alert for Richard Leibman, 48, of Princeville, who is wanted on four warrants tied to burglary, theft and criminal trespass. Investigators said Leibman has also been linked to 11 incidents in 2025 and 2026, and that he is known to frequent Princeville, ‘Anini and Po‘ipū.

Leibman is described as 5 feet 10 inches tall, about 170 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair. Police said anyone who sees him or has information about his location should contact Detective Ritchael Cariaga at (808) 241-1698. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i by phone, through its website or with the P3 Tips app.

Crime Stoppers Kaua‘i says anonymous tips that lead to an arrest can qualify for cash rewards of up to $1,000. That makes specific, timely information especially valuable to investigators, including where Leibman was seen and any details that can help police confirm a sighting quickly and safely.

This is not the first time a public tip has helped police track Leibman down. In February 2019, a Princeville resident called police after reporting that he was sleeping beside a home on Aloali‘i Drive, leading to his arrest on three bench warrants. Those warrants were each listed at $50,000 and were related to revocation or modification of probation.

Leibman was also known to some North Shore residents as the “Jesus Bandit,” a nickname tied to his appearance. Earlier accounts described a criminal history that included unlawful entering, burglary, theft, resisting arrest, escape and assault against a law enforcement officer.

For Kaua‘i residents, the latest appeal again shows how local tips can move an active case forward. Police are relying on the public to help narrow where Leibman is moving across the island, especially in the communities where he is known to spend time, while officers work to take him into custody on the outstanding warrants.