Post by: 841gun on May 11, 2016, 10:22:59 PM
Please allow my to chime in. "Riiiinnnnggg" I saw the post in "Reviews" and strongly feel that it should be posted here. Some of you know that I review firearms so I hope that you guys will trust my information on this one.
I took the NRA Instructors Class from Darin and thought I had a pretty good friendship with him. He was a great mentor. Anytime I had a question on training or needed a form to fill out he was there to help. I ended up helping him with a class of about 20 students for a Basic Pistol Class in June 2015.
On March 10,2015, as the sales recpeit says below I paid partial cash for a powder order. After little over a year no powder and no refund.
After multiple attempts through facebook and texting throughout 2015 I let him know that if I didnt get my money back or the powder I would take him to small claims court. A week later I got the money order from him that is pictured below. The date I gave him the money was on 03/10/2015. The money order date you ask? I just got it in the mail. 4/12/2016 to be exact.
My apologies this is not the whole story. He did answer me via text message and facebook. The first time 1. that the order had been misplaced or stolen. Second and 3rd time that the distribution centers he was going through did not have supply. I will not remove this post. It should not have taken 1 year to see the powder order or even for a refund.
Post by: ren on May 11, 2016, 10:25:25 PM
Post by: GlockNewb on May 11, 2016, 10:36:51 PM
Post by: Hawaii On Target on May 11, 2016, 10:51:08 PM
Hello All,
Please allow my to chime in. "Riiiinnnnggg" I saw the post in "Reviews" and strongly fell that it should be posted here. Some of you know that I review firearms so I hope that you guys will trust my information on this one.
I took the NRA Instructors Class from Darin and thought I had a pretty good friendship with him. He was a great mentor. Anytime I had a question on training or needed a form to fill out he was there to help. I ended up helping him with a class of about 20 students for a Basic Pistol Class.
Somewhere time before or after that he said he was going to put a powder order in and I gave him cash. I have attached a picture of the receipt. For almost a year I waited for this order. It never came. I posted here on 2a if anyone had any dealings with that order. Some people say they got their money back some said they are still waiting.
After multiple attempts through facebook and texting i finally let him know that if I didnt get my money back or the powder I would take him to small claims court. A week later I got a money order from him. I have attached that picture below as well. The date I have him the money was on 03/10/2015. The money order date you ask? I just got it in the mail in April. 4/12/2016 to be exact.
I have other dealings with him that involve investing money into his store but as it can be considered as hearsay I will not mention them here. Please all be careful when dealing with him.
That's not the entire story Russell. Please remove this post.
Post by: paka808 on May 11, 2016, 11:02:32 PM
maybe they should change their name to Hawaii Off Target? ???Hawaii target your money :rofl:
Post by: dustoff003 on May 11, 2016, 11:04:16 PM
The interwebs are forever
That's not the entire story Russell. Please remove this post.
Post by: ren on May 11, 2016, 11:09:23 PM
Hawaii target your money :rofl:
I know where all your powder & ammo money went!
(http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lmhohgSDUD1qhrue1o1_500.jpg)
Because they are short of $$$
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/21/us/hawaii-struggles-to-keep-rail-project-from-becoming-a-boondoggle.html?_r=0 (http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/21/us/hawaii-struggles-to-keep-rail-project-from-becoming-a-boondoggle.html?_r=0)
http://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/category/286122/reality-of-rail (http://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/category/286122/reality-of-rail)
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on May 11, 2016, 11:22:30 PM
28 minutes and 9 seconds for a response to a negative forum post.
:rofl:
Post by: GlockNewb on May 11, 2016, 11:27:09 PM
13 months for a refund.
28 minutes and 9 seconds for a response to a negative forum post.
:rofl:
What, no mic drop?! Inconceivable!!
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on May 11, 2016, 11:35:08 PM
What, no mic drop?! Inconceivable!!
I traded that mic for a Caddy .....
Post by: rhironaka808 on May 12, 2016, 01:54:13 AM
Post by: 841gun on May 12, 2016, 02:09:11 AM
he paid me back after a year of waiting for a powder order
my post was in response to another 2a member post in the Reviews section.
Is it bad business? Thats open as it is subjective. But I would think a reasonable person would say yes it is bad business.
Post by: Antithesis on May 12, 2016, 04:41:13 AM
That's not the entire story Russell. Please remove this post.
Soo... what is the story?
Post by: ren on May 12, 2016, 07:12:23 AM
Soo... what is the story?
(http://i1.wp.com/www.retroist.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Gates-McFadden-National-Enquirer.jpg)
Post by: Inspector on May 12, 2016, 07:29:17 AM
I am not taking sides here. We all know there are two sides to every story. So why don't you elaborate and let us know your side? Just a thought. :shaka:
That's not the entire story Russell. Please remove this post.
Post by: Jl808 on May 12, 2016, 07:56:19 AM
Post by: ren on May 12, 2016, 09:32:00 AM
(http://aminamichele.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Baby-Powder.jpg)
Post by: HiCarry on May 12, 2016, 10:38:14 AM
Post by: surfer22 on May 12, 2016, 12:03:39 PM
Post by: aieahound on May 12, 2016, 12:10:26 PM
For those who haven't followed the thread in reviews
https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=23080.0
Post by: surfmaster on May 12, 2016, 01:07:17 PM
I'm not sure about their business model. It may be that they want you, the customer to pay first. Your funds are then used as principal to run their business. If so, this business model is flawed.
Reason is they would be using your new money to fund and cover PAST orders and operations. When your order's turn comes up, it becomes a drain on their resources despite you having pre-paid for your stuff - unless they can get new moneys from new customers to fund your now PAST order.
I'm not saying this is what they're doing. It's just information and food for though. That's it.
Post by: ren on May 12, 2016, 01:08:24 PM
I have not done business with Hawaii on Target. Base on the reviews here, I doubt I ever will.
I'm not sure about their business model. It may be that they want you, the customer to pay first. Your funds are then used as principal to run their business. If so, this business model is flawed.
Reason is they would be using your new money to fund and cover PAST orders and operations. When your order's turn comes up, it becomes a drain on their resources despite you having pre-paid for your stuff - unless they can get new moneys from new customers to fund your now PAST order.
I'm not saying this is what they're doing. It's just information and food for though. That's it.
sounds like a ponzi scheme
Post by: zippz on May 12, 2016, 01:15:41 PM
I can see why businesses, like the later, need to charge up front because the business will order, pay for, and receive the item. Then a lot of customers will then change their mind and not want the item. Probably the majority would do this if no prepayment is made. The business is stuck with the item and has trouble selling it, even for high in demand items.
Post by: HiCarry on May 12, 2016, 02:29:57 PM
sounds like a pyramid scheme
I know several of the one principal's past victims. In talking to them I think the term "con-man" was used many times. He is bad news and folks would be best off to avoid any business dealings with him.
Post by: Q on May 12, 2016, 05:36:04 PM
I know several of the one principal's past victims. In talking to them I think the term "con-man" was used many times. He is bad news and folks would be best off to avoid any business dealings with him.
Can you recommend an alternative instructor for the NRA pistol instructor course?
Post by: Garuda on May 12, 2016, 06:18:20 PM
I ordered ammo and have been given excuses about wrong orders being received, it should be here soon, etc. If I was the owner I would be proactive in keeping my customers aware of the situation and shipment issues, instead of having the customer need to continue to call in and inquire as to what's going on when it's nearly a month past the original arrival date. It really seems like something fishy is going on here. I will not be ordering anything else from Hawaii on target regardless of the price and I will recommend that my friends do the same.
Sorry to hear that it's you too. I agree, I don't care what the price is it isn't worth it to order from or do business ever again.
Post by: Lankim on May 12, 2016, 08:45:12 PM
Post by: dogman on May 12, 2016, 08:59:43 PM
We are really debating on ever doing business with this shop.Doesn't seem like there is anything to debate.
Post by: ren on May 13, 2016, 08:10:54 AM
How much?
Post by: jaynick on May 13, 2016, 08:45:57 AM
i told hawaii on target that if its not at least partially fulfilled by the end of the month i want a refund so i can buy elsewhere. good prices, dont mind waiting a month or two if it actually comes in. anything more than that isnt really worth it.
Post by: Garuda on May 13, 2016, 09:55:51 AM
So how many of you are owed $$$ ?
How much?
4 digits worth given 3/31/16
No communication at all unless initiated by me. It's now Friday, the day Darren said the money would be returned. We will see. Something tells me I won't hear anything and will end up calling in to see what's up. I hope not. If I get contacted and get my refund today, as I was told would happen, I will comment and say so.
Post by: ren on May 13, 2016, 10:15:44 AM
Post by: Garuda on May 13, 2016, 10:26:36 AM
Wow. Id be yelling with that much money lost. Sounds criminal.
I've given them every opportunity before taking it here. I hate drama and don't Like that it has come to this. I enjoy this forum and don't want to air out dirty laundry on here, I really don't. :(
On the other hand, I don't want others to go through what I am going through.
Post by: HiCarry on May 13, 2016, 10:36:42 AM
Can you recommend an alternative instructor for the NRA pistol instructor course?
PM me
Post by: surfer22 on May 13, 2016, 02:29:16 PM
Sorry to hear that it's you too. I agree, I don't care what the price is it isn't worth it to order from or do business ever again.
Thank you. I hope you are able to get your refund today. Please let us know how it goes
Post by: dustoff003 on May 13, 2016, 03:39:46 PM
I've given them every opportunity before taking it here. I hate drama and don't Like that it has come to this. I enjoy this forum and don't want to air out dirty laundry on here, I really don't. :(A BBB complain might be an idea?
On the other hand, I don't want others to go through what I am going through.
Post by: Garuda on May 13, 2016, 04:25:44 PM
Told Monday I would maybe have money.
I was also asked to remove this post because it's making things difficult for them.
That is up to the mods of this site. Once I receive refund, I will post, then never talk of HOT again.
Post by: 841gun on May 13, 2016, 04:49:44 PM
what would have happen if this thread and the one in the Review section was not posted?
would he have made you wait a year? or a few more months?
i dont want anyone else to have to wait a year for a refund.
this thread is nothing more than a review. nothing different than youd find on yelp or any other site
enough people have come forward to put HOT on notice.
if the behavior changes great. if not there is now some type of record of what to expect when dealing with HOT.
Post by: scorpio ps on May 13, 2016, 05:25:27 PM
Post by: 841gun on May 13, 2016, 05:42:26 PM
we had a pretty good working relationship so i let it slide. i have records of me asking about it throughout the year.
I have him tons of chances. there was always an excuse.
by the time it all ended a year had past.
why he waited so long? beats me
Post by: surfmaster on May 13, 2016, 05:50:24 PM
It would have been the easiest way to stop the criticism. HOT should have moved the sun and moon to give you your money TODAY not Monday.
I don't get what's so hard to understand about this simple concept. Pay people back on time, and you have made it easier for them to forgive you versus continually holding out on them.
I've been through this so I know exactly how you feel.
It's clearer that HOT is using the flawed business model of using new money to fund PAST purchases/expenses. Problem is people who pre-paid will not get their money on time unless new money comes in.
It's Friday. 415 message left. Prompt callback from Darren.
Told Monday I would maybe have money.
I was also asked to remove this post because it's making things difficult for them.
That is up to the mods of this site. Once I receive refund, I will post, then never talk of HOT again.
Post by: scorpio ps on May 13, 2016, 06:43:26 PM
Post by: HiCarry on May 14, 2016, 11:27:32 AM
@ scorpio ps
we had a pretty good working relationship so i let it slide. i have records of me asking about it throughout the year.
I have him tons of chances. there was always an excuse.
by the time it all ended a year had past.
why he waited so long? beats me
I hate to keep beating the same drum, but the guy has a history of taking advantage of those around him, including folks who thought they were his friend or colleague. He is a con man who leaves a trail of broken promises and empty wallets. If his behavior hasn't changed over the last 10 years, I doubt that it will change now.
Post by: Garuda on May 15, 2016, 10:04:36 PM
Post by: paka808 on May 15, 2016, 10:17:19 PM
Refund received in full. Best of luck to everyone on getting their deal done or undone.good to hear :thumbsup:
Post by: Shoboshi on May 20, 2016, 11:15:25 AM
https://www.amazon.com/sp?_encoding=UTF8&asin=B006PH5TMG&isAmazonFulfilled=0&isCBA=&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&orderID=&seller=A2N8N72D3AHB6C&tab=&vasStoreID=
Post by: ren on May 20, 2016, 11:20:06 AM
Found Hawaii on Target on Amazon.comOdd assortment of products
https://www.amazon.com/sp?_encoding=UTF8&asin=B006PH5TMG&isAmazonFulfilled=0&isCBA=&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&orderID=&seller=A2N8N72D3AHB6C&tab=&vasStoreID=
Post by: surfmaster on May 20, 2016, 02:44:44 PM
Odd assortment of products
Post by: ibuytoys on May 31, 2016, 10:48:26 AM
https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=23351.0
Post by: jcw556 on May 31, 2016, 02:47:19 PM
Is he really an FFL, as indicated on gunbroker?
Since KHON2 has interviewed Darin before, as a firearms safety expert, I have contacted them to see if they would like to interview him again.
Truly amazing that he thinks he can do this and get away with it. If he would communicate his problems, I'm a pretty understanding guy. But when you have people's money and cut off communications, it looks like a planned ripoff.
He's got some serious problems. Hope he works them out. A KHON2 news story would almost certainly shut him down.
Post by: oldfart on May 31, 2016, 03:02:23 PM
Hawaii On Target (DARIN HAITSUKA), listed ten's of thousands of rounds of mini mags for sale on gunbroker.com, collected payments, did not ship ammo and has not refunded money to most buyers. Many, many excuses, including his associate Dexter Chun was assaulted at warehouse in California, had broken bones and was badly beaten up (anyone know Dexter?), causing another delay. Gunbroker buyers are trashing HOT in feedback, using words like SCAM, RIPOFF and FRAUD (that was my word). When things got hot, Darin went dark, no longer answering any emails or phone. Last email said to call Alex Kim @ HOT for refunds. Phone is never answered. Messages aren't returned....
Is he really an FFL, as indicated on gunbroker?
Since KHON2 has interviewed Darin before, as a firearms safety expert, I have contacted them to see if they would like to interview him again.
Truly amazing that he thinks he can do this and get away with it. If he would communicate his problems, I'm a pretty understanding guy. But when you have people's money and cut off communications, it looks like a planned ripoff.
He's got some serious problems. Hope he works them out. A KHON2 news story would almost certainly shut him down.
Welcome to 2a hawaii. Sorry about your unfortunate experience.
Why don't you introduce yourself?
https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=4.0
Maybe you'll get lucky.
Post by: HiCarry on May 31, 2016, 04:13:48 PM
I would strongly suggest that he be avoided at all costs....
Post by: drck1000 on May 31, 2016, 04:33:55 PM
This is not the first time Darin has had these problems. He has a very long history of cheating and defrauding folks in the gun community and, I suppose, elsewhere. Anyone who goes into business with him should be considered to hold similar ethical and moral standards (i.e. none...).Wow!
I would strongly suggest that he be avoided at all costs....
I "know" him through SRGC. At one time, I recall that they were trying to get instructors to volunteer to put on the basic handgun safety class (that fulfills Hawaii's requirements) for SRGC members and family. I was too busy at the time, so I didn't seriously consider volunteering. But from what I recall, the whole arrangement, including fees from the students and expectations of the volunteers seemed off somehow. I am not sure if the classes were ever conducted, but I always remember that. Was probably 2-3 years ago now.
I would think that Hawaii is such a small place that word would get around. I guess the internet allows some level of anonymity and allows people rebrand themselves in creative ways.
Post by: ibuytoys on June 01, 2016, 02:49:38 PM
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on June 01, 2016, 03:09:58 PM
This was posted in my other thread regarding HOT
Renovation AND relocation?
If you renovate, why relocate?
If you relocate, why renovate?
Hmmmmm...... ???
Post by: ren on June 01, 2016, 03:15:17 PM
Renovation AND relocation?
If you renovate, why relocate?
If you relocate, why renovate?
Hmmmmm...... ???
Innovate don't procrastinate
.
.
.
.
How you know where I’m at when you haven’t been where I’ve been, understand where I’m coming from ?
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on June 01, 2016, 03:26:32 PM
Innovate don't procrastinate
.
.
.
.
How you know where I’m at when you haven’t been where I’ve been, understand where I’m coming from ?
Here is something you can't understand .... How I could just kill a man
Post by: macsak on June 01, 2016, 09:46:25 PM
Renovation AND relocation?
If you renovate, why relocate?
If you relocate, why renovate?
Hmmmmm...... ???
be sure to read this post in the other thread and the ones after it too
https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=23080.msg208863#msg208863
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on June 01, 2016, 10:05:50 PM
be sure to read this post in the other thread and the ones after it too
https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=23080.msg208863#msg208863
On all the forums I ever visited, cross posting and duplicate topics were forbidden. Mods deleted duplicate posts to keep things organized and spammers in check.
looks like on this forum not only is cross posting and dupe topics a normal practice, the mods are participating and assisting it!
Post by: Mr. Farknocker on June 02, 2016, 07:42:59 AM
http://hoohiki.courts.hawaii.gov/#/search_listing?lastName=Haitsuka&itemsPerPage=50¤tPageNumber=1&firstName=Darin
Of course, it could be a different Darin Haitsuka than the one talked about here.
~F
Post by: Heavies on June 02, 2016, 07:51:24 AM
On all the forums I ever visited, cross posting and duplicate topics were forbidden. Mods deleted duplicate posts to keep things organized and spammers in check.This is not a duplicate topic, this is a separate incident.
looks like on this forum not only is cross posting and dupe topics a normal practice, the mods are participating and assisting it!
Lets act like adults. Don't jump to conclusions or over speculate.
Maybe all of those who have outstanding ammo or powder should get each others info and plan out a LEGAL course of action to get your product or money refunded.
Post by: aieahound on June 02, 2016, 08:17:05 AM
Just sayin'
Post by: jaynick on June 02, 2016, 08:31:50 AM
Might behoove you guys to check out those court records.first one i clicked was waterfront towers and he owes them 30k too.
Just sayin'
we need a class action suit to stand out among all those other pending suits
Post by: MMM on June 02, 2016, 08:50:27 AM
first one i clicked was waterfront towers and he owes them 30k too.
we need a class action suit to stand out among all those other pending suits
lot of TRO's here.
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on June 02, 2016, 09:00:49 AM
This is not a duplicate topic, this is a separate incident.
Lets act like adults. Don't jump to conclusions or over speculate.
Maybe all of those who have outstanding ammo or powder should get each others info and plan out a LEGAL course of action to get your product or money refunded.
The topics may be started using separate incidents, but when people are posting the exact same comments in more than one thread, that would be the time to maybe start a new general topic and lock the ones people are cross posting in.
Both threads are focusing on HOT and the owner, not the incidents that started the threads, That tells me the 2 have converged into one.
You even felt compelled to post the same comment in both threads, That should tell you something.
I'm not gong to argue since you mods do wahtever you want here. I'm only stating my case. Agree or not, doesn't matter to me.
Post by: Jl808 on June 02, 2016, 10:09:48 AM
Maybe this needs its own forum section. (Just kidding.)
Post by: HiCarry on June 02, 2016, 10:46:34 AM
The topics may be started using separate incidents, but when people are posting the exact same comments in more than one thread, that would be the time to maybe start a new general topic and lock the ones people are cross posting in.
Both threads are focusing on HOT and the owner, not the incidents that started the threads, That tells me the 2 have converged into one.
You even felt compelled to post the same comment in both threads, That should tell you something.
I'm not gong to argue since you mods do wahtever you want here. I'm only stating my case. Agree or not, doesn't matter to me.
One of Darin's typical "responses" to issues in the past was to create a fictitious screen persona and berate others or praise himself....so, if someone new suddenly shows up on the forum causing problems, or trying to defend Darin or his business practices, be very suspicious....
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on June 02, 2016, 11:27:38 AM
One of Darin's typical "responses" to issues in the past was to create a fictitious screen persona and berate others or praise himself....so, if someone new suddenly shows up on the forum causing problems, or trying to defend Darin or his business practices, be very suspicious....
Do I sound like I'm defending anyone other than my own opinion of forum rules and management?
Maybe the only "problem" I'm causing is in calling out the mods lack of moderating.
Like I said, do what you want, but don't try and deflect by falsely accusing me of defending someone I have no interest in.
Post by: aieahound on June 02, 2016, 02:34:10 PM
Welcome to the forum.
I don't think anyone is implying anything against you.
HiCarry is just giving a heads up to everyone.
One thing we love here is the Moderators moderate moderating.
Post by: dogman on June 02, 2016, 05:39:48 PM
Post by: GotFirearms? on June 02, 2016, 08:21:12 PM
Post by: pantyhamster on June 03, 2016, 09:51:12 AM
THE COURT INFORMED DEFENDANT OF THE SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF THE DEFERRAL THAT SHALL BE COMPLIED WITH: A) FOLLOW ALL REASONABLE INSTRUCTIONS WHICH ARE GIVEN TO YOU BY YOUR PROBATION OFFICER; B) NOT OWN OR POSSESS ANY FIREARMS OR AMMUNITION, ETC;
work in the firearms business :wtf:?
Hmmmm
Post by: HiCarry on June 03, 2016, 11:16:02 AM
Do I sound like I'm defending anyone other than my own opinion of forum rules and management?
Maybe the only "problem" I'm causing is in calling out the mods lack of moderating.
Like I said, do what you want, but don't try and deflect by falsely accusing me of defending someone I have no interest in.
Sorry if you got caught up in this mess or feel offended. I was simply bringing up information about his past behavior and history of creating false online personas to further his agenda. You are new with minimal posts and come to the forum and bring up the issue of moderation. That type of attempt to deflect the conversation is exactly what this guy would do, so unfortunately you may have been viewed, under the circumstances, a little more suspiciously.
As someone else mentioned, I was simply trying to let folks know his MO. My apologies. Welcome to the forum.
Post by: HiCarry on June 03, 2016, 11:22:26 AM
Folks are coming out of the woodwork and now chiming in regarding separate but related incidents.
Maybe this needs its own forum section. (Just kidding.)
He has a long history...asked to leave DLNR as an instructor, stole ammunition and equipment from LIFE, ran a scam on a car purchase from a fellow instructor and got the salesman (a family member) fired, promised a good deal on a couple of rifles for some friends and never delivered them after taking pre-payment....I could go on...again, and I cannot stress this enough, he's bad news, a con man. And, anyone associated with him should be considered in the very same light....
Caveat emptor....
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on June 03, 2016, 12:03:13 PM
Sorry if you got caught up in this mess or feel offended. I was simply bringing up information about his past behavior and history of creating false online personas to further his agenda. You are new with minimal posts and come to the forum and bring up the issue of moderation. That type of attempt to deflect the conversation is exactly what this guy would do, so unfortunately you may have been viewed, under the circumstances, a little more suspiciously.
As someone else mentioned, I was simply trying to let folks know his MO. My apologies. Welcome to the forum.
Perhaps you missed my earlier reply (#8 in this topic) where I was obviously not acting "suspicious" per your description/MO ....
https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=23088.msg206394#msg206394
Letting folks know of his MO didn't have to include a quote of my post, if indeed you meant it to be a general warning.
I'll accept your apology, but the offense, in my mind, is warranted.
Post by: zippz on June 03, 2016, 12:25:14 PM
1. Do not post things that you cannot prove to be true or you can get sued.
2. Be stern but civil. Do not make any violent threats or anything that can be implied as leading to violence.
3. Keep innocents out. Ie arguing with the wrong Darin, interrupting a class to argue with him, etc
4. Document contacts with him.
Post by: HiCarry on June 03, 2016, 12:32:22 PM
Perhaps you missed my earlier reply (#8 in this topic) where I was obviously not acting "suspicious" per your description/MO ....
https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=23088.msg206394#msg206394
Letting folks know of his MO didn't have to include a quote of my post, if indeed you meant it to be a general warning.
I'll accept your apology, but the offense, in my mind, is warranted.
Sorry again for any offense, but the MO of this guy in the past was to create a new online persona and then derail the conversation by introducing non-relevant issues. At first those posts/comments would seem rather innocuous and even well-intentioned but would quickly go astray.
So, while the offense you felt may well be warranted in your mind, a warning, based on a new member posting a tangential issue on the topic at hand was, in my mind, certainly relevant and consistent with Darin's past behavior. I was simply urging caution and suspicion should your posts start going down another path. It was, for lack of a better analogy, investigating a vehicle that matched the description of a car used in a crime....you were unwittingly caught up in that "investigation" and appear, at this point, to have been in the wrong place and the wrong time in a "suspicious" vehicle. Sorry for the inconvenience or for any negative inferences that may have resulted from my post.
So, I hope that clears that up...again, no offense to you was intended.
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on June 03, 2016, 12:42:31 PM
Sorry again for any offense, but the MO of this guy in the past was to create a new online persona and then derail the conversation by introducing non-relevant issues. At first those posts/comments would seem rather innocuous and even well-intentioned but would quickly go astray.
So, while the offense you felt may well be warranted in your mind, a warning, based on a new member posting a tangential issue on the topic at hand was, in my mind, certainly relevant and consistent with Darin's past behavior. I was simply urging caution and suspicion should your posts start going down another path. It was, for lack of a better analogy, investigating a vehicle that matched the description of a car used in a crime....you were unwittingly caught up in that "investigation" and appear, at this point, to have been in the wrong place and the wrong time in a "suspicious" vehicle. Sorry for the inconvenience or for any negative inferences that may have resulted from my post.
So, I hope that clears that up...again, no offense to you was intended.
Please re-read the post prior to my moderator comments.
https://2ahawaii.com/index.php?topic=23088.msg208875#msg208875
User "macsak" quoted my comment & linked to another topic. That's when I saw both threads had cross-posted comments that (IMO) should be combined into one.
basically, macsak started this "tangential issue".
Post by: aieahound on June 03, 2016, 12:49:54 PM
We basically blame Macsak for everything.
Post by: Heavies on June 03, 2016, 01:50:36 PM
I'm not affected by this and this thread is an interesting read. My suggestions:
1. Do not post things that you cannot prove to be true or you can get sued.
2. Be stern but civil. Do not make any violent threats or anything that can be implied as leading to violence.
3. Keep innocents out. Ie arguing with the wrong Darin, interrupting a class to argue with him, etc
4. Document contacts with him.
AMEN
Post by: Q on June 04, 2016, 04:46:40 AM
Post by: dirsh on June 06, 2016, 12:11:07 AM
13 months for a refund.
28 minutes and 9 seconds for a response to a negative forum post.
:rofl:
Epic
Post by: surfer22 on June 07, 2016, 06:55:27 PM
Post by: ibuytoys on June 07, 2016, 07:08:56 PM
Post by: surfer22 on June 07, 2016, 08:15:53 PM
He's sly too. He strung everyone along for at least 60 days which is typically the maximum amount of days allowed for a credit card dispute to be filed.
How does anybody like this stay in business??? I just don't get it.
Post by: bongxima on June 09, 2016, 12:11:17 AM
I too am very interested in this message board when I googled Darin's name
after seeing him on TV.
So the question was asked:
How does this guy stay in business?
Answer:
He will eventually shed skins and do some other business.
He's done it before and will likely do it again when the next
trend hits Hawaii. They'll need salesmen and since he's got
nothing to lose...
If you might remember a few years ago... a particular Nokia
cellular phone was very common/popular. A LOT of people
had this model (Which I cannot remember the model #), but
they had kiosks at shopping centers where they'd sell different
color skins and cases and so on.
Darin was selling these cellular phones and airtime plans to
people who were looking to buy.
Because the whole plan required a large payment at the start,
Darin would take his commission immediately and start to
spend it, rather than reinvesting it and making that entity grow.
An older fellow who ran a payroll company gave him a small
operating space and helped fund this endeavor...
but it was clear that Darin wasn't focused on maintaining the
whole business.
The two guys eventually split apart, and I can't find his ex-partner's
payroll company listed in the phone book, so I dunno if it's still in biz.
Then I'll fast-forward some 10 years to NOW, and I see this jerk-off
on the news, promoting his company. My jaw
hit the floor, and I was completely astounded that he somehow
managed to do business as a firearms dealer, and convince the TV
station to do a story on them.
I told my mother, who ALSO KNOWS him from when I was a
kid. She too, saw him and couldn't get over how fat he became.
So I had to see if he had a positive reputation online. This message
board came up 2nd or 3rd on the search results.
But that is the short/long story about Darin in another time, doing the same crap.
Thx for reading.
Post by: Heavies on June 09, 2016, 12:40:34 AM
Hello all.
I too am very interested in this message board when I googled Darin's name
after seeing him on TV.
So the question was asked:
How does this guy stay in business?
Answer:
He will eventually shed skins and do some other business.
He's done it before and will likely do it again when the next
trend hits Hawaii. They'll need salesmen and since he's got
nothing to lose...
If you might remember a few years ago... a particular Nokia
cellular phone was very common/popular. A LOT of people
had this model (Which I cannot remember the model #), but
they had kiosks at shopping centers where they'd sell different
color skins and cases and so on.
Darin was selling these cellular phones and airtime plans to
people who were looking to buy.
Because the whole plan required a large payment at the start,
Darin would take his commission immediately and start to
spend it, rather than reinvesting it and making that entity grow.
An older fellow who ran a payroll company gave him a small
operating space and helped fund this endeavor...
but it was clear that Darin wasn't focused on maintaining the
whole business.
The two guys eventually split apart, and I can't find his ex-partner's
payroll company listed in the phone book, so I dunno if it's still in biz.
Then I'll fast-forward some 10 years to NOW, and I see this jerk-off
on the news, promoting his company. My jaw
hit the floor, and I was completely astounded that he somehow
managed to do business as a firearms dealer, and convince the TV
station to do a story on them.
I told my mother, who ALSO KNOWS him from when I was a
kid. She too, saw him and couldn't get over how fat he became.
So I had to see if he had a positive reputation online. This message
board came up 2nd or 3rd on the search results.
But that is the short/long story about Darin in another time, doing the same crap.
Thx for reading.
Interesting. Thank you for sharing, and welcome to the forum.
Post by: Garuda on June 09, 2016, 07:04:58 PM
How can?
Post by: ren on June 09, 2016, 07:08:20 PM
You would think with all this negative issues over the years and he's still able to do so on a large scale.......
How can?
Well, look at Justin Bieber. A train wreck spoiled brat but there are people willing to spend $$$ on him.
Post by: surfmaster on June 10, 2016, 10:16:46 AM
Hello all.
I too am very interested in this message board when I googled Darin's name
after seeing him on TV.
So the question was asked:
How does this guy stay in business?
Answer:
He will eventually shed skins and do some other business.
He's done it before and will likely do it again when the next
trend hits Hawaii. They'll need salesmen and since he's got
nothing to lose...
If you might remember a few years ago... a particular Nokia
cellular phone was very common/popular. A LOT of people
had this model (Which I cannot remember the model #), but
they had kiosks at shopping centers where they'd sell different
color skins and cases and so on.
Darin was selling these cellular phones and airtime plans to
people who were looking to buy.
Because the whole plan required a large payment at the start,
Darin would take his commission immediately and start to
spend it, rather than reinvesting it and making that entity grow.
An older fellow who ran a payroll company gave him a small
operating space and helped fund this endeavor...
but it was clear that Darin wasn't focused on maintaining the
whole business.
The two guys eventually split apart, and I can't find his ex-partner's
payroll company listed in the phone book, so I dunno if it's still in biz.
Then I'll fast-forward some 10 years to NOW, and I see this jerk-off
on the news, promoting his company. My jaw
hit the floor, and I was completely astounded that he somehow
managed to do business as a firearms dealer, and convince the TV
station to do a story on them.
I told my mother, who ALSO KNOWS him from when I was a
kid. She too, saw him and couldn't get over how fat he became.
So I had to see if he had a positive reputation online. This message
board came up 2nd or 3rd on the search results.
But that is the short/long story about Darin in another time, doing the same crap.
Thx for reading.
It's a crying shame that some people have no qualms about scamming people. It doesn't matter whether it's cell phones, time shares, or even ammunition, these guys will find a way to make unsuspecting people part with their money. Like a legitimate businessperson, research occurs on a product and and whether there's enough of a market for it. A "business plan" and the subsequent sales, marketing and networking occurs. People are convinced and place their hard-earned money on "deposit."
However, unlike a good business, the scammer's intent is to steal from innocent customers. DH is obviously pretty good at doing this otherwise he would be in prison now. I wonder what his next business venture will be?
This whole incident is just another life lesson about the many types of people out there. Despite the fact that most of the people in the gun business are supposed to be good due to the stringent regulations, there will always have rotten apples in the bunch. We all just hope to steer clear from these bad eggs. I hope everyone scammed can recover their money.
Post by: mill8316 on June 14, 2016, 02:16:10 AM
Even though I got the $ back. I am still pissed at Hawaii on Target and this guy Darin. I hope they end up in prison and their assets are seized to pay back those who paid cash.
Post by: oldfart on June 14, 2016, 05:41:16 AM
Post by: ibuytoys on June 14, 2016, 08:48:14 AM
Post by: 841gun on June 14, 2016, 11:06:12 AM
Post by: ibuytoys on June 18, 2016, 10:42:57 AM
Anyone here still owed $$$$ from H.O.T. and want to push the issue further should bring it into the light by exposing these actions.
http://khon2.com/2016/06/17/travel-agency-under-investigation-as-owner-scrambles-to-reimburse-customers/
Post by: 841gun on June 21, 2016, 06:04:10 PM
Post by: jcw556 on June 27, 2016, 06:43:53 AM
Perhaps Darin will be arrested AND have his vehicle impounded. I'm not into revenge but, EXCELLENT !!!
Post by: mrgaf on July 01, 2016, 02:28:45 PM
Post by: surfer22 on July 01, 2016, 06:16:23 PM
Hmmmm interesting...just saw a commercial on ME TV about Hawaii on Target (7/1/16 @ 2pm). Either it's an old commercial or they are still in business. Also noticed in the commercial that there is a guy named Darin Haitsuka associated with them. Not a nice guy and he is a few cards short of a full deck. He was thrown out of he Hawaii Hunter Ed program for communicating threats against the program manager back in 2005. I was his Master Instructor and the one who got him thrown out. I'll just leave it at that, I know him very well... With him involved, nothing surprises me... He's a real shady character and would not know the truth if it hit him alongside his head... A real snake.... Nothing that's be said here surprises me. He's a real slick operator..... Oh yeah he was also an ordained "minister" back then too... What a joke....
He's not just associated with them. He is the owner/operator and that's probably why Hawaii on Target did all this shady stuff. The ordained minister thing is hilarious 😂😂😂
Post by: London808 on July 01, 2016, 08:59:23 PM
He's not just associated with them. He is the owner/operator and that's probably why Hawaii on Target did all this shady stuff. The ordained minister thing is hilarious 😂😂😂
What's wrong with being an ordained minister ?
I am and im licensed by the star to marry people as well
Post by: surfer22 on July 01, 2016, 10:10:42 PM
What's wrong with being an ordained minister ?
I am and im licensed by the star to marry people as well
I don't think there's anything wrong with being an ordained minister. I do think it's very ironic and somewhat a joke that guy like Darin, with a history of lying and shady practices, is an ordained minister.
Post by: London808 on July 01, 2016, 10:31:34 PM
I don't think there's anything wrong with being an ordained minister. I do think it's very ironic and somewhat a joke that guy like Darin, with a history of lying and shady practices, is an ordained minister.
Its an online form and a processing fee, You can ordain your toaster if you felt the need
Post by: surfer22 on July 02, 2016, 01:56:36 AM
Its an online form and a processing fee, You can ordain your toaster if you felt the need
That's cool I guess. I still think it's ironic for a guy that's sounds like a professional liar to be a minister. Somebody else posted a picture of him doing some kind of prison ministry. I just think it's funny is all. I have nothing against you or any other ordained minister, toaster, etc though lol
Post by: Flapp_Jackson on July 02, 2016, 02:13:22 AM
That's cool I guess. I still think it's ironic for a guy that's sounds like a professional liar to be a minister. Somebody else posted a picture of him doing some kind of prison ministry. I just think it's funny is all. I have nothing against you or any other ordained minister, toaster, etc though lol
I grew up around evangelical preachers who often got caught living the high life of sin! They were taking donations sometimes from those least able to afford tit, all in the name of doing "God's work". So, I'm not too surprised when a "man of the cloth" gets caught breaking the law -- both God's and man's!
I guess they are hoping they can ask for forgiveness before they depart this world? >:D
Post by: jcw556 on July 02, 2016, 05:37:48 AM
I'm hoping Darin gets to practice in front of an earthly judge first. And I'm a little surprised there hasn't already been news of his arrest.
Post by: PeaShooter on July 02, 2016, 09:09:50 AM
I paid with a visa credit card and recently decided to submit a "transaction dispute" I provided all the info and email history of attempts to contact them.You didn't really need to send them all that stuff, even if they asked for it. All it really takes to start a transaction dispute is your word that you received nothing, or received something that was not as described. Credit card companies generally side with the buyer and will restore your funds when you file the complaint. Depending on the timing of the complaint and other factors, they are required by law to do so. It's only if the seller afterwards files a dispute, that providing such information becomes helpful, but chargebacks rarely get to that stage.
Many honest sellers would not even bother disputing a fraudulent buyer chargeback, instead they just refuse to do business with that buyer in the future.
Post by: surfer22 on July 04, 2016, 11:39:47 AM
You didn't really need to send them all that stuff, even if they asked for it. All it really takes to start a transaction dispute is your word that you received nothing, or received something that was not as described. Credit card companies generally side with the buyer and will restore your funds when you file the complaint. Depending on the timing of the complaint and other factors, they are required by law to do so. It's only if the seller afterwards files a dispute, that providing such information becomes helpful, but chargebacks rarely get to that stage.
Many honest sellers would not even bother disputing a fraudulent buyer chargeback, instead they just refuse to do business with that buyer in the future.
Maybe he didn't NEED to but I can definitely understand the reasoning behind him sending that info. All it can do is help to back up his story.