The Domens were supported by Ka Aha O Na Wai Eha Aku Moku O Maui Loa, a Hawaiian sovereignty group, which claimed that the real owners are not Maui Pine and had given the Domens permission to stay.

Lawyer Eugene Evans, who represented Belles, said proving title might have become an issue, if the trial had gone forward.

Lawyer David Cain, who represented Bill Domen said: "My client was very pleased that the court dismissed the charges against him."

Cain had researched the title chain in preparing for the trial.

"We're going to see more and more cases of title problems," he predicted.