Commendations


Often the dedication of our officers and staff earn them commendations from the chief or letters of appreciation from the public.

To find out how you can express your appreciation for one of our employees, visit our Feedback page.

Below are links to recent commendations and letters of appreciation.

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Second Quarter 2020

Letters from the public

  • Officer Len Hamakado for his professionalism while dealing with an unfamiliar individual in a neighborhood.
  • Sergeant James Correa, Officers Gibson Kahele, Scotty Aloy, Chuck Cobile, Bryson Pilor, Gabriel Wilson, Sheldon Adviento, and Chelsey Santos, for their professionalism when responding to a traffic accident.
  • Sergeant Norbert Serrao for his efforts in performing CPR to a male party in a medical emergency.
  • Lieutenant Roylen Valera, Sergeants Dayne Bolos, Dean Uyetake, Officers John Kalauli, Angitau Faanunu, and Reserve Officers Henry Chong, Gary Sojot, and Tyson Matsumura, for their assistance with the Honoka‘a High and Intermediate School Diploma Drive-Thru.
  • Officers Travis Wong and Chance Lunsford for their efforts in handling an auto theft report.

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Fourth Quarter 2016

Commendation from the Chief

  • Officer Jeremy Riddle for assisting Puna Community Policing Officers with the operation of the Keiki ID machine while off duty.
  • Sergeant Roylen Valera, Detective Michael Hardie and officers Ellsworth Fontes Jr., Joseph Stender, Wyattlane Nahale, Kyle Hirayama, Sheldon Nakamoto, Kapelieli Kauahikaua Jr., Clayton Tayamen, Blaine Morishita, Stephen Kishimoto and Aron Tomota for their participation in the “National Coffee with a Cop Day” on October 7.

Letters from the public

  • Officers Kuilee Dela Cruz and William Vickery for assisting Kealakehe Elementary School in an off-campus evacuation drill.
  • Detective William Brown, Officers Jason Grouns, Aaron Kaleo, Clive Okino, Bobbie-Jo Sagon, Darryl Castillo, Paul Mangus, Michael Matsumura, Keenanlee Ouranitsas, Clifford Antonio, Bryson Pilor, Lawrence Kobayashi, Melissa D’Angelo, Nicole Kanakaole-Ioane, Duane Rapoza, Paul Wright, Keith Nacis, Stacy Leialoha, Matthew Lewis, James Steffen, Jeremy Kubojiri, Wyatt Kaili-Leong, Benjamin Koehler, Alric Dalere, Chester Franco, Joshua Barumgarner, Brian Kohara, Tristen Allen, Cacique Melendez, Christopher Barto, Police Recruits Conrad Bidal, Lisa Ebesugawa, Lauren Pacheco, Brian Tada, Isabel Feki, Joshua Willing, Isaac Michaels, Elik Vodovoz, Joshua Rody-Tomas, Christopher Huff and Evidence Specialist Jennnifer Minaai for participating in the “Cop on Top” fundraiser in Hilo for Special Olympics.
  • Officers Kimmerlynn Makuakane-Jarrell and Eric Reyes for their assistance with the Drug Enforcement Administration’s 12th National Take Back Initiative.
  • Officer Darryl Castillo for his assistance with a 17-year-old girl when a car was “keyed” in a parking lot.
  • Sergeant Brandon Konanui and Officers Wyatt Kaili-Leong, Bryson Miyose and Shea Nactor for assisting the Department of Public Safety in executing a court order of ejectment.
  • Detective Derek Morimoto for speaking at the STARS Annual Remembrance Luncheon.
  • Officer Donovan Kohara for his assistance and perseverance in the eviction of squatters.
  • Captain Albert Jason Cortez, Detective Craig Higaki and Officers Neil Shiroma and Emerson Paranada for their assistance to the U.S. Marshals Service in preventing disruption of Moʻokini Heiau Children’s Day.
  • Officer Jeff Natividad for his work and empathy during a burglary investigation.
  • Captain Samuel Jelsma and Officer Dustin Sampaga for their assistance with an off-campus evacuation drill for Pāhoa Elementary School.
  • Officer Corina McLellan for her professionalism in addressing an Administration of Justice class at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo.
  • Lieutenant Robert Fujitake and Officers Ryan Domingo, Cory Hasegawa, Corina McLellan, Kaeo Drummondo and Gregg Silva for their assistance in providing Keiki ID cards at a fundraising event for “A Dream Come True.”
  • Officer Edwin Namohala for showing compassion when taking a suspect into custody.
  • Officer Dayson Taniguchi for changing a flat tire for a person whose car didn’t have a jack.
  • Special Account Clerk Rose Granadosin and Officers Justin Cabanting, John Kahalioumi, Dayton Tagaca, Landon Takenishi and Eric Uehana for their assistance with Papa Ola Lokahi’s annual gathering at Lapakahi State Park.
  • Officers Kaea Sugata and Jeremiah Hull for their professionalism and patience during a workplace violence situation.
  • Special Account Clerk Rose Granadosin and Officers Justin Cabanting, John Kahalioumi, Dayton Tagaca, Landon Takenishi and Eric Uehana for their assistance with Papa Ola Lokahi’s annual gathering at Lapakahi State Park.
  • Lieutenants Gregory Esteban and Darren Horio, Sergeant Bryan Tina, Detectives Robert Almeida, Grant Todd, Todd Pataray, Bobbie-Jo Sagon and William Brown, Officers Jason Grouns, Aaron Yamanaka, Melissa D’Angelo, James Steffen, Paul Mangus, Kaeo Drummondo, Isabell Feki, Luke Watkins, Branden Watanabe and Isaac Michaels for participating in or assisting with the “Tip a Cop” fundraiser.

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Third Quarter 2016

Letters from the public

  • Officers Joshua Baumgarner and Daniel Tam for their handling of a land dispute between neighbors.
  • Sergeant Edwin Buyten and officers Shane Davis and Kenneth Walker for their professionalism and sensitivity when a 96-year-old woman died at home.
  • Officers Bryan Ellis, Reuben Pukahi, Jeffrey Hirai, Reserve Officers Joseph Hing Sr. and Julio Pasamonte for their assistance at an Independence Day parade in Kailua-Kona.
  • Officers Brand Powers, Stephen Kishimoto, Mike Thompson, Scott Alloy and Nicolas McDaniel for their kindness and success in searching for a missing man with memory problems.
  • Officers Jeremiah Hull, Alric Dalere, Conrad Iranon and Joel Furuto for providing assistance in a report of deomesic violence and abuse of a minor child.
  • Officers Brian Kohara and Chance Lunsford for providing ice cream to child witnesses after one of the children said he liked ice cream.
  • Officer J. Masa Pagay for his professionalism and courtesy with victims of an identity breach.
  • Lieutenant Darren Horio and Detectives Wendall Carter, Sandor Finkey, Clarence Davies, Todd Pataray and George Makua for their assistance to the organizers of the annual American Cancer Soiety Relay for Life.
  • Officer Michael Matsumura for his compassion and professionalism.
  • Officer Ronald Borowski for his assistance to a New Zealand family that led to their finding a lost bag containing passports.
  • Officers Jon Carvalho, Melissa D’Angelo and Christopher Barto for their professionalism in assisting an absentee homeowner after a break-in.
  • Officers Chance Lunsford and Roberto Segobia for their response to a citizens’ request to take a photo with her young son who was “freaking out with excitement.”
  • Lieutenant Thomas Shopay, Sergeant Greg Yamada, Sergeant Roylen Valera and Officer Scott Dewey for their roles in an “Active Shooter” presentation at the Kona County Building.
  • Officers Ryan Domingo and Cory Hasegawa for their contributions to a beautification project at Kulaimano Elderly Housing in Hilo.
  • Officers Robert Keffer and Terence Scanlan Jr. for their assistance and professionalism after a house was struck by lightning.
  • Officer Chandler Nacion for his “superb” performance following a “hit-and-run” crash into a parked car.
  • Justin Hooser for issuing a speeding ticket to a woman driving on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway, prompting her to reflect on her actions and to use the incident as a “teachable moment” for teenagers.
  • Officers Ivan Alatan and John Mac Kalauli for helping replace a tire after a blowout.
  • Officer Joseph Rocha for changing a tire for a woman who was driving with her daughter.
  • Officer DuWayne Waipa for “doing “a hell of a job” in the Hawaiian Paradise Park subdivision and being an “exceptional officer.”

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Second Quarter 2016

Letters from the public

  • Captain Robert Wagner, Detectives Tod Bello and John Rodrigues, Officers Donovan Kohara and Gibson Kahele, Reserve Officer Manuel Benevides, Area I Criminal Investigations Section personnel, Area I Community Police Officers and South Hilo Patrol officers for helping to coordinate the motorcade for the late Senator Gilbert Kahele’s procession through Hilo.
  • Lieutenant Darren Horio, Detectives John Rodrigues, Royce Serrao, Jesse Kerr, Officers Donova Kohara, Daniel Kuwabara, Wyatt Kaili-Leong, Matthew Kaaihue, Gregg Silva, Gavin Kagimoto and Corey Hasegawa for volunteering their time or helping at the Late Senator Giblert Kahale’s “Evening of Aloha.”
  • Officers Chance Lunsford, Blake Ragocos and Nicole Kanakaole-Ioane for their response to a parking dispute with neighbors.
  • Officer Matthew Kaaihue for showing proficiency and dignity when he responded to a car accident.
  • Officers Kevin Brodie and Brian Markham for peacefully resolving an incident involving trespassers in Ocean View.
  • Community Policing Officers Kuilee Dela Cruz, William Vickery, Bryan Ellis and Ellsworth Fontes for assisting Kahakai Elementary School with its Winterfest 2015, Color Run and Career Day events.
  • Community Policing Officer Scott Dewey for providing assistance to Kahakai Elementary School when its new policy for dropping of children was implemented.
  • Detective Chad Taniyama and Officer Kimmerlyn Makuakane-Jarrell for their assistance with the Drug Enforcement Administration’s 11th National Take-Back Initiative.
  • Officer Jason Grouns for coordinating the Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run and Captain Samuel Jelsma, Detective Renee Morinaka, Officers Dwayne Waipa, Davy Kamalii, Jeremy Kubojiri, Wayne Kenison, Clive Okino, Bryson Miyose, Corey Kaneko, Paul Mangus, James Pacheco and the 84th Recruit Class for their support and participation.
  • Officers Davy Kamalii, James Pacheco and DuWayne Waipa for their assistance with Junior Police Officers in the schools.
  • Officer Robert “Keala” Pule for the compassion and caring he displays toward students at Honokaʻa High School.
  • Officer Scotty Aloy for his “exemplary character” during the investigation of an assault case and its presentation in court.
  • Officers Davy Kamalii, DuWayne Waipa and Jeremy Kubojiri for their presentation at the Pāhoa Boys and Girls Club.
  • Officers Daniel Tam and Roberto Sebogia for accompanying a utility company employee on a field call to disconnect service to a hostile customer.
  • Officer Tyler Jelsma for being “a hero” to a man who was being threatened with a shotgun.
  • Lieutenant Jeremie Evangelista and Officer May Lee for representing the Police Department so well at a “Coffee with a Cop” event in Waikoloa Village.

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First Quarter 2016

Commendations from the chief

  • Reuben M. Pukahi for his professionalism and compassion when he changed a man’s flat tire.
  • Detective Fetuutuunai Amuimuia for identifying, arresting and charging a suspect after a sexual assault was reported at a beach in Hilo.
  • Sergeant David Araki for his kindness and concern while providing assistance to a woman who wanted information about a car accident in which her father died.

Letters from the public

  • Sergeant Mekia Rose and Officers William Marciniak and Chandler Nacion for their prompt response to a call about a possible burglary.
  • Officers James Waiamau, Nelson Acob, Dustin Sampaga and Eric Ontiveros for their assistance after a fatal motor vehicle crash within the boundary of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
  • Officer Ronald Borowski for being instrumental in returning lost property to travelers from California after Good Samaritans turned it in at the Kona police station.
  • Lieutenant Greg Esteban for the Area I Criminal Investigations Section’s recovery of the body of a man who had been reported missing.
  • Officer Tristin Allen for being courteous and friendly when issuing a speeding citation.
  • Officer Ivan Alatan for doing a great job in the Hōnōkaʻa community.
  • Officers Shane Hanley and Brian Hunt for going to the assistance of a visitor whose rental car had a flat tire.
  • Sergeant Zachary Houchin, Detective Craig Higaki and Officers Nicholas McDaniel, Scott Dewey, Kaea Sugata, Stanley Haanio and
  • Leonard Warren for their outstanding assistance to the U.S. Marshals Service in locating and arresting a fugitive with a history of violence.
  • Lieutenant Thomas Shopay, Sergeant Greg Yamada, Officer Clinton Lewe-Song and Officer Joseph Stender for assisting the U.S. Marshals Service in providing security support to Associate Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayer during a visit to Hawaii Island.
  • Sergeant Lorenzo Artienda and Officers Gibson Kahele and Wayne Kenison for providing assistance in a potential workplace violence situation.
  • Officers Aaron Abalos, Clifford Antonio, Aaron Keleo, Jenny Lee, Duane Rapoza, Brian Souki and Daniel Murray for their assistance when a car was stolen and later recovered.
  • Officers Luke Watkins and Jason Smith for their excellent response and investigation into an assault.
  • Sergeant Chris Correia for his past work training police recruits.

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Fourth Quarter 2015

Commendations from the chief

  • Major Randy Apele, Lieutenant Reed Mahuna, Officers DuWayne Waipa, James Pacheco, William Brown and Joshua Flores for repairing a long-abandoned flag pole, replacing the rope and making arrangements to have a military unit raise and retire the American Flag at Lincoln Park, beginning on Veterans Day.

Letters form the public

  • Officers Bradden Kimura and Sheldon Nakamoto for their sympathy, respect and comfort when they responded to an incident at a woman’s home.
  • Officers Aaron Tanaka and Ansel Robinson for their professional attitude and compassion following a hospital death.
  • Records Section Clerical Services Supervisor II Jo-Ann Tallett and Administrative Services Division Major Samuel Thomas for the special treatment afforded to staff from the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney when that agency’s main computer server was down and they were unable to retrieve necessary documents.
  • Detective Chad Taniyama and Officers Jo Aoki and Kimmerlyn Makuakane-Jarrell for their assistance and support of the DEA National Take-Back Initiative.
  • Sergeant Brandon Konanui, Officer Shane Hanley and Police Chaplain Renee Godoy for their empathy and consolation to a veteran’s bereaved family.
  • Officer Matthew Bennett for the exceptional job he did assisting a tourist after she was robbed in her rental condominium.
  • Captain Kenneth Bugado Jr. and Officers Bobbie-Jo Sagon and Joseph Passmore for supporting an IRS Criminal Investigation Team with search warrant enforcement in Hōnōkaʻa.
  • Melissa D’Angelo for assisting a woman whose car overheated “in the middle of nowhere” while en route from Ocean View to Hilo.
  • Officer Jason Grouns for organizing the record-breaking “Tip a Cop” fundraiser for Special Olympics East Hawaiʻi and Lieutenant Gregory Esteban, Detectives Robert Almeida, Grant Todd and Wendall Carter, Sergeant Robert Pauole, Officers Bryson Pilor, Joshua Baumgarner, Keenan Kaleo, William Brown, Duane Rapoza, Melissa D’Angelo, Paul Wright, Bryson Miyose Michael Matsumura, Paul Mangus, Chester Franco, Lawrence Kobayashi and Brad Resureccion for their participation.
  • Officer Lawrence Kobayashi for his assistance with a visitor’s lost property.
  • Sergeant Chris Correia for his response to a man who was threatened by someone living on his property.
  • Assistant Chief Paul Kealoha, Major Mitchell Kanehailua, Lieutenant Gary Souther, Sergeant Zachary Houchin, Detectives Craig Higaki, Scott Kurashige, Sean Smith, Officers Stanley Haanio, Leonard Warren, Jeffrey Hirai, Marco Segobia, Edward Lewis Jr., Scott Dewey, Jami Harper, Nicholas McDaniel and Peter Tourigny for their contributions to an operation by the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Fugitive Task Force and United States Marshal’s Service.
  • Officers Joshua Flores and James Pacheco for their participation in Pāhoa Elementary School’s off-campus drill.
  • Special Duty Clerks Andrea “Lani” Akau and Rose Ann Granadosin and Officers Justin Cabanting, John Kahalioumi, Paul Nagata, Dayton Tagaca, Landon Takenishi and Eric Uehana for providing special duty presence at Papa Ola Lokahi’s annual Laau Lapaau gathering at Lapakahi State Park.
  • Detectives Scott Kurashige and Roylen Valera, Officers Erich Jackson, Sony Villesca and Jeffrey Hirai, and Reserve Officer Joseph Hing Sr. for their “superb and seamless job performance” at the Kailua-Kona Community Christmas Parade.

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Third Quarter 2015

Commendations from the chief

  • Detective Sean Smith and Officer Daniel Rances for saving the life of a man who was struggling in rough surf at Pauoa Bay when Smith and Rances were paddle boarding while off-duty. Because of the rough surf and strong current, it took 45 minutes for Smith, Rances and a civilian to return the snorkeler to shore on Rances’ board. Thanks to their actions, the man was unharmed.

Letters from the public

  • Firearms Registration Clerks Arlene Young and Julie Ebanez for their professionalism, courteousness and efficiency when performing their duties.
  • Officers Paul Isotani and Dion Santiago for doing  a “professional and classy job” in making Honokaʻa a safer community.
  • Officer William Brown for his contributions in making the Volcano community safer.
  • Detectives Wendall Carter, George Makua, Todd Pataray, Dean Uyetake and Officer Aaron Kaleo for providing and setting up tents, table and chairs for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
  • Officers Joseph Stender and Ellsworth Fontes for the good work they are doing in Kailua Village.
  • Sergeant Zachary Fernando for being “a fine officer with a good heart.”
  • Officers Donovan Hegarty and Robert Keffer for their assistance when a car was stolen.
  • Officer Sean Phelan for his professionalism and quiet efficiency while giving a speeding ticket on Saddle Road.
  • Lieutenant Kenneth Quiocho and Officer Victor McLellan for their service at a Bon Dance.
  • Officer Edwin Namohala Jr. for being kind and thorough in dealing with a tough situation when he responded to an accident in a store parking lot.
  • Officer Kyle Hirayama for his actions when a California woman reported she lost a camera at Hapuna Beach.
  • Officer Paul Mangus for his “quick and heroic actions” while off duty when a customer had a seizure at a bank.
  • Detective John Rodrigues Jr. for his professional attitude while helping a Hilo woman recover her stolen cell phone and wallet.
  • Lieutenant James Gusman for being instrumental in hastening service of a TRO.
  • Officer Clayton Tayamen for recovering a stolen car.
  • Officer Marlin Hopson for his work on a bogus checks investigation.
  • Officer Scott Dewey for his diligent community policing efforts at Kahaluʻu Beach Park.
  • Officer Jason Grouns, Lieutenant John Briski, Officer Aaron Kaleo, Lieutenant Darren Horio, Sergeant Charrise Wakita, Officers Michael Rutkowski, Paul Mangus, Keith Nacis, Michael Lucas-Medeiros, Michael Matsumura, Matthew Kaaihue, Duane Rapoza, Wyatt Kaili-Leong, William Brown, Lawrence Kobayashi, Corey Kaneko, Melissa D’Angelo, Shane Hanley, Duffy Duldulao, Darryl Castillo, Recruit Officers Sheldon Adviento, Tristen Allen, Christopher Barto, Jushua Baumgarner, Roger Carvalho, Wilson Gani, Brian Kohara, Chance Lunsford, Chad Sato, Keeananlee Ouranitsas, Bryson Pilor, Jason Rabang, Terrance Scanlan and Debi Vierra for participating or contribution to the 12th annual “Cop on Top” fundraiser at Walmart in East Hawaiʻi.
  • Officer Donovan Kohara for his outstanding efforts in getting the job done speedily and expertly.
  • Officer Brian Hunt for his “efforts and fast thinking” in the apprehension of suspects who stole a truck.

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Second Quarter 2015

Commendations from the chief

  • Officer Brent Foster for observing a vehicle wanted in connection with a theft, calling in its location, assisting on-duty officers with the traffic stop, and identifying witnesses—all while off duty.

Letters from the community

  • Officer James Rinkor for his compassion and support during a fatal medical emergency.
  • Sergeant Mekia Rose for changing a tire for an unlucky motorist in the middle of rush hour traffic.
  • Officer William Brown for his assistance with a barking dog problem.
  • Sergeant Mekia Rose and Officer Briana Boyce for helping change a tire on Kuakini Highway on a hot afternoon
  • Officers Michael Abran, Briana Boyce and Darren Cho for offering assistance while a man waited for a tow truck in Kona
  • Lieutenant Darren Horio and Officers Matthew Kaaihue, Nicole Leyson and Bryan Tina for their professionalism and participation at the 2015 Makahiki.
  • Officer Marcos Santos for his professionalism when he responded to a call involving a patient.
  • Officer Ewoud Bezemer for preventing a driver from turning onto a street where a reckless driver was about to speed through the intersection.
  • Officer Wyatt Kaili-Leong for his professionalism and compassion while investigating a burglary.
  • Officers Erhard Autrata and Ansel Robinson for their response to a domestic violence incident at a Hilo office.
  • Officer Joseph Passmore helping keep people safe during Honokaʻa’s Western Week.
  • Officers Anson Caceres and Bryan Tina for their assistance at Project Graduation Night for Waiakea High School.
  • Captain Kenneth Bugado and Officer Angitau Faanunu for assisting the Maui Police Department with an operation.
  • Officer Nicole Leyson and Captain Aimee Wana for their assistance in planning the Royal Parade for the Merrie Monarch Festival.
  • Officer Dwight Walker for remaining professional and courteous when he responded to a home in Pahoa three times in one evening.
  • Assistant Chief Henry Tavares, Captain Robert Wagner, Detectives Jesse Kerr and Scott Amaral for their role in a successful FBI investigation of a kidnapped 9-year-old girl.

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First Quarter 2015

Commendations from the chief

  • Officer Duffy K. I. Duldulao for his initiative and investigative skills that resulted in the prompt recovery of a stolen vehicle.
  • Sergeant Mekia Rose and Officers Brett Winther and Chandler Nacino for performing cardio-pulmonary resuscitation after a 73-year-old man collapsed and became unresponsive.

Letters from the public

  • Officers Dayton Tagaca, John Kahalioumi, Eric Uehana, Landon Takenishi, Justin Cabanting Reserve Officer Julio Pasamonte and Account Clerks Andrea Lani Akau and Rose Ann Granadosin for their assistance and professionalism in making Papa Ola Lokahi’s annual laʻau lapaʻau a success.
  • Sergeant Kelley Matsumoto for his leadership and professionalism and Officers Joslyn Kabalis and John Kari for their response to a reported vandalism suspect being at Hōlualoa Village.
  • Officer Darren Cho for his work in the South Kona District.
  • Officers Jonathan Bartsch, Dayton Tagaca and Landon Takenishi for their quick response to a theft and successful recovery of stolen goods taken from a public school.
  • Officer Patrick Kihara for his “trusted and respected service” in response to an internet hacking incident.
  • Officers Clive Okino, Darryl Castillo, Aaron Kaeo, Victor McLellan, John Mac Kalaui, Christopher Jelsma and Chuck Cobile, Sergeant Darryel Tolentino and Dispatchers Julia Yamanouchi and Tracy Bolos for being excellent public employees and having compassion.
  • Officer Jacob Obermiller for his professional handling of an incident involving a Hilo woman and her neighbors.
  • Officers Paul Mangus and Luke Watkins for their professional handling when retrieving a Keaʻau man’s stolen car.
  • Officer Edwin Namohala for his honor, compassion and service to the community.
  • Lorenzo Artienda for being professional, empathetic and compassionate and for showing genuine concern while keeping a Keaʻau family informed about the status of a criminal case.
  • Officer Jami Harper for his professionalism.
  • Officers Daniel Tam and Eddie Cardines Jr. for assisting a Pāhoa man when his car stalled on the Keaʻau-Pāhoa highway.
  • Detective Brandon Konanui and Officer Kelly Moniz for their drug presentation to a tour company.
  • Officers Gregg Silva and Gavin Kagimoto for a presentation on burglaries and suspicious activities at the Sunrise Estates annual membership meeting.
  • Officer Jacob Obermiller for his respect and courtesy during the issuance of a traffic citation.
  • Officers Gregg Silva, Gavin Kagimoto, Ryan Domingo, Nicole Leyson, Richard Itliong, Matthew Kaaihue and Corina McLellan for their role in an interdepartmental presentation for the Department of Parks and Recreation about homeless issues in parks.
  • Officers William Brown, Joshua Flores and DuWayne Waipa for their participation in Kamehameha Middle School’s Annual Career Day.
  • Officer Joseph Picadura for assisting a Keaʻau man.
  • Officer Nicole Leyson for assisting a California couple when their rental car was stolen.
  • Officer Kimo Keliipaakaua for assisting a Hilo woman with an issue involving her vehicle when he was off duty.
  • Officer Michael Matsumura for being “kind and extremely patient” while assisting a Pāhoa woman.
  • Officer Michael Rutkowski for his initiative and efforts that led to the prompt return of a stolen item.
  • Officer Christopher Kapua-Allison for his acts of kindness, generosity and professionalism during a traffic stop.

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Fourth Quarter 2014

Commendations from the chief

  • Lieutenant Robert Fujitake, Sergeant Lorenzo Artienda, Officers Edwin Namohala Jr., Oliver Agustin, Malia Bohol, Chuck Cobile, Roland Kuamoo, Chere Rae Kalili and Gabriel Wilson for the outstanding work they did in response to a bank robbery, resulting in the arrest of the suspect within 22 minutes. He was eventually charged and sentenced to 15 ½ years in federal prison.
  • Officer Christopher Jelsma for the outstanding work he did while assigned to the Kona Patrol Division.
  • Officer Chester Jay Franco for doing an excellent job expediting traffic at the Kamehameha Avenue/Bayfront intersection.
  • Officers Cory Gray and Jody Buddemeyer for their outstanding initiative and teamwork during a routine traffic stop on a stolen car that contained drugs, drug paraphernalia, ammunition and cash, leading to attempted meth trafficking and numerous other charges for one suspect and an auto theft arrest for the other.
  • Officer Marlin Hopson for his compassion during a response to an accident.
  •  Letters from the public
  • Officers Michael Abran and Thomas Koyanagi for their response and professionalism after a couple in new car got hit by a drunk driver.
  • Officer Cory Gray for his assistance when an Arizona family had a flat tire.
  • Officers Mark Arnold and Wayne Kenison for their professionalism in handling a domestic violence incident.
  • Officer Shawn Ibarra for changing a Puna woman’s tire when it blew on the drive home from Kona.
  • Lieutenant Kenneth Quiocho and Officers Aaron Yamanaka, Danny Rances and Matthew Kaaihue for their participation in “Police Aikido Day” for Seishikan Aikido.
  • Officer Gibson Kahele for his professionalism and  service to a Hilo man’s situation.
  • Community Policing Officer Ellsworth Fontes for his outstanding work with the Pualani Estates community.
  • Sergeant Christopher Ragasa and Officer Daniel Tam for their calm demeanor and understanding nature when assisting a traumatized person with filing a report.
  • Officer Jonathan Bartsch for his assistance in alleviating an annoying dog problem.
  • Captain Richard Sherlock, Lieutenant Miles Chong, Detective Tod Bello, Officers Brad Resureccion, Keith Simeona, Matthew Lewis, Jacob Obermiller, Christopher Jelsma, Melissa D’Angelo, Earl Haskell, Wayne Kenison and Mark Arnold for demonstrating professionalism and good conduct.
  • Officer Daniel Tam for his assistance at Hio Medical Center.
  • Assistant Chief Henry Tavares for conveying his compassion at the Annual Remembrance Luncheon for survivors of homicide victims.
  • Officers William Brown, DuWayne Waipa and Reserve Officer Iris McGuire for intercepting young people before, during and after a RAVE party.
  • Officer Denise Smith-Erickson for her efforts in serving court documents.

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Third Quarter 2014

Commendations from the chief

  • A Certificate of Merit to Officers Wayne Kenison and Erhard Autrata for providing lifesaving CPR to a man who had no pulse and did not appear to be breathing.
  • A Certificate of Merit to Officers Charrise Wakita and Earl Haskell for providing CPR to a man who had no pulse and was not breathing.
  • Lieutenants Gerald Wike, James Gusman, Detectives Sharlotte Bird, Edwin Buyten, Roylen Valera,  Derek Morimoto, Dean Uyetake, Sergeants Paul Kim, Zachary Fernando, Officers Carrie Akina, Dustin Chaves, Darren Cho, Nicholas McDaniel, Wyattlane Nahele, Kaeo Drummondo, Chester Franco, Greg Ikeda,  Kimmerlyn Makuakane-Jarrell, Paul Mangus, Benjamin Nishimoto, Brad Resureccion, Melissa D’Angelo, Len Hamakado, Shawn Ibarra, Bradley Llanes, Blaine Morishita and Eric Uehana for their performance during “Operation Running (Wo)Man,” which led to the arrest of six individuals and the recovery of stolen vehicles.
  • Officer Reuben Pukahi for the professionalism and genuine concern he showed when responding to a report of an unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle.

Letters from the Public

  • Officers William Brown, Davy Kamalii and James Pacheco for the work they are doing in the Hawaiian Paradise Park subdivision.
  • Account Clerk Andrea “Lani” Akau for her assistance and support of the Merrie Monarch Festival’s parade.
  • Officer Jacob Obermiller for his assistance in resolving an ongoing incident for a Hilo woman.
  •  Sergeant Travis Ing for being patient and pleasant.
  •  Officers Dwight Walker, Blayne Matsui, Norman-Randy Caoagdan and Wyatt Kaili-Leong for their prompt and courageous response to a break in at a Puna home.
  • Officer Daniel Tam for his kindness and professionalism when responding to a call.
  • Assistant Chief Paul Kealoha, Lieutenant Gary Souther, Sergeant Floyd Cody Richards, Officers Jeff Hirai, Kale Vickery and Jason Hamada for providing assistance to the State Department of the Attorney General in the execution of a search warrant.
  • Officer Ellsworth Fontes for his commitment and dedication to resolving problems in a Kailua-Kona neighborhood.
  • Officer Eric Ontiveros and Officer Johnathan Kailiuli for the kindness and caring they displayed when responding to a call from “a very frightened woman.”
  •  Officer Christopher Jelsma for investigating a break-in at a Kona restaurant and Lieutenant Gary Souther for his direction.
  • Officer Chandler Nacion for his calm and concerned demeanor when assigned to investigate threatening phone calls.
  • Officers Oliver Agustin and Roland Kuamoo for being understanding and professional when they investigated a Hilo man’s theft case.
  • Officer James Pacheco for his initiative, reliability and positive interactions with a Neighborhood Watch group.

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Second Quarter 2014

Commendations from the chief

  • Evidence Custodian Michael A. Ferreira for the assistance he provided to the South Kohala District with their evidence to ensure that district with a smooth transition for its new evidence clerk.

 Letters from the public

  • Officer Nicole Leyson for her professionalism and great dispotition.
  • Andrea “Lani” Akau for assisting with special duty needs.
  • Officers Robert Pule, James Pacheco and Davy Kamalii for assisting the P.H.I.S Booster
    Club in their efforts to get a football program.
  • Officer Brent Foster for assisting the U.S. Secret Service in investigating suspects who made threats against the President.
  • Officer Paul Nagata for his diligent community policing efforts at the end of Kakahiaka Street in North Kona.
  • Officer Jared Cabatu for recovering a Hilo man’s stolen truck.
  •  Officer Marcos Santos for his exemplary conduct and professionalism in working with Neighborhood Watch groups.
  •  Officers Robert Panem and Christopher Ragasa for their professional response to a traffic hazard in Maulua Gulch.
  • Officer Sidra Naki-Brown for responding quickly to a call with professionalism and sensitivity.
  • Officer Michael Santos for showing concern by listening to needs and issues and making earnest efforts to help with respect and aloha.
  • Officers Bronson Kaliloa and Michael Lucas-Medeiros for their efforts and assistance in locating a Kailua-Kona woman’s lost smart phone.
  • Officer Marlin Hopson for taking two shipwrecked visitors into his home until the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaiʻi could provide assistance.
  • Officer May Lee for providing support for an abuse victim and her family.
  •  Officer John Gandolf Jr. for giving a Waikoloa senior citizen a ride home after her car broke down and she was struggling to walk.
  •  Detective Bradley Freitas, Officer Jo Aoki and Officer Eric Reyes for their assistance and support during the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Take-Back Initiative.
  •  Officers Kuilee Dela Cruz, William Vickery, Bryan Ellis, Darren Cho, Wyattlane Nahale, Ellsworth Fontes, Paul Nagata and Joshua Dumont for their Bicycle Patrol participation in Peoples Advocacy for Trails Hawaiiʻs “Ride of Silence.”
  •  Officers John Gandolf, Daniel Tam and Darren Abalos for monitoring the Kohala Road traffic.
  •  Officers Amacias Valdes and Ivan Alatan for their response to a report of a reckless driver who was speeding and overtaking vehicles into oncoming traffic.
  •  Officers Robert Pule, James Pacheco and Davy Kamalii for their outstanding service during the 2013-2014 school year at Keonepoko Elementary School.
  •  Officers Kayla Kahuli, Clive Okino, Corey Kaneko and Matthew Lewis for assisting a Hilo woman with a difficult guest at her vacation rental.
  •  Detective Ian Lee Loy for the outstanding work he did in an investigation.

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First Quarter 2014

Commendation from the chief

  • Detective Walter Ah Mow, Detective Edwin Buyten, Detective Levon Stevens, Officer Darren Cho, Officer Joshua Dumont, Officer Bryan Ellis, Officer Ellsworth Fontes, Officer Erich Jackson, Officer Joslyn Kabalis, Officer Kalae Lee, Officer John McCarron, Officer William Vickery and Officer Peter Tourigny for their outstanding performance during “Operation Robin Hood,” which resulted in the arrest of six persons for a variety of serious offenses, including kidnapping, robbery, meth trafficking, theft and firearms offenses.
  • Officer William Vickery for his response to abandoned and derelict vehicles in Kailua-Kona.
  • Lieutenant Sherry Bird, Detective Chad Taniyama, Officer William Simpson, Officer Scotty Aloy, Officer Erich Jackson, Officer Tyler Prokopec, Officer John McCarron, Officer Eric Reyes, Officer Jo Aoki, Officer Carrie Akina, Officer Joslyn Kabalis, Officer Edward Lewis Jr., Officer John Kahalioumi, Officer Brent Foster, Officer Scott Dewey and Officer Landon Takenishi for their hard work and vigilance in fighting the war on drugs in the North Kohala District.

Letters from the public

  • Special Duty Clerks Andrea “Lani” Akau and Rose Ann Granadosin and Officers Dayton Tagaca, John Kahalioumi, Eric Uehana, Scott Dewey and Sergeant Paul Bugado for assisting Papa ola Lokahi with its annual laau lapaau gathering at Lapakahi State Park.
  • Officer Brent Foster for being professional and compassionate when investigating a drug house next door to a family with children.
  • Officers Denise Smith-Erickson and Kristi Crivello for being responsive and helpful about a complaint of barking dogs.
  • Officers Dale Ku and Justin Cabanting for their investigation of a landlord-tenant dispute in Hāwī.
  • Sergeant Calvin Delaries Jr., Sergeant Paul Kim, Officer Benjamin Nishimoto and Officer Chester Franco for providing security support for the “Courts in Community” program at UH Hilo.
  • Officers William “Kale” Vickery, Kuilee Dela Cruz, Paul Nagata and Sergeant Floyd Richards for participating in the 2013 Hunger and Homeless Awareness Event in November.
  • Officer Brian Hunt for his assistance when a van had a flat tire on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway and the occupants discovered that the spare tire also was flat.
  • Captain Randal Ishii, Officer Paul Nagata and Officer William Vickery for their assistance with a complaint about derelict vehicles in Kailua-Kona.
  • Officer Kyle Hirayama for helping a Nevada woman find her lost purse.
  • Detective Norbert Serrao Jr. for his professionalism and kindness during a suicide investigation.
  • Officers Matthew Bennett and Aron Tomota for thoroughly investigating a complaint.
  • Officer Blaine Morishita for his informative anti-bullying presentation.
  • Officer Corey Kaneko for treating a Hilo woman hospitably and courteously.
  • Officer Benjamin Nishimoto for being objective, fair and helpful while providing informative and timely advice.
  • Officer Dean Uyetake for being responsive and compassionate and inspiring a Hilo woman with hope and courage.
  • Officer Murray Toledo for rescuing a couple who got lost on a hike.
  • Officer Paul Isotani and the rest of the Hāmākua District’s police officers for their efforts to keep the Honoka‘a Community safe.
  • Sergeant Greg Yamada and Officers Christopher Ragasa and Jeffrey Natividad for their assistance in the execution of a search warrant for the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney.
  • Officers Kimmerlyn Makuakane-Jarrell and Bryson Miyose for their compassion and professionalism when a Hilo woman’s father died in an accident.
  • Lieutenants Nancy Haitsuka and Darren Horio for their roles in providing information on police procedures and answering a Kona woman’s questions stemming from several incidents involving her family.
  • Officers Keith Simeona and Melissa D’Angelo for their professionalism when a Hilo woman was stopped for not having her vehicle’s lights on.

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 Fourth Quarter 2013

Commendations from the chief

  • Officer Brent Foster for developing information about and arresting a Honoka‘a woman who was in possession of 5 grams of methamphetamine and loaded firearms. The 27-year-old woman was subsequently charged with meth trafficking, 21 firearms offenses and three other drug-related offenses.
  • Officer Kayne Kelii for the excellent work he did on a robbery case.

Letters from the public

  • Officers Patrick Aurello and Ryan Pagan for their arrest of individuals involved with drug activity.
  • Sergeant Lorenzo Artienda and Officers Chuck Cobile, Roland Kuamoo, Gabriel Wilson, Wayne Kenison, Aaron Abalos, Charrise Wakita, and Reserve Officer Roger Kalua for their professional response and attention to the public’s safety when responding to an incident at a busy intersection.
  • Polygraph Examiner Ingrid Dean for her informative presentation on forensic art facial reconstruction at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo.
  • Dispatcher Deborah Warren for putting a Keaʻau woman at ease when she called for assistance.
  • Officer Wayne Kenison who responded to a car alarm at a shopping center while off duty and prevented an unauthorized control of a motor vehicle and custodial interference in progress.
  • Detective Joel Field and Officers Cala Arnold, Joseph Passmore and Luke Watkins for going “over and above what a reasonable person could expect” when investigating the theft of a truck and other items.
  • Officers Brian Hunt and Josiah Coe for helping an elderly woman find a wallet she thought had been stolen.
  • Sergeant Charles Adams for straightening out a mistaken bench warrant that had been issued for a Hāwī woman.
  • Officer Jonathan Bartsch for donating Project Childsafe gun locks for students and staff who attended a Hunter Education class in Kohala on October 30.
  • Officers Ryan Pagan and Patrick Aurello for their professionalism when handling a burglary investigation.
  • Officers Branden Watanabe, John Talich, Michael Matsumura and James Steffen for their professionalism and calming effect with responding to a call in Leilani Estates.
  • Detective John Rodrigues and Officers Courtney Bello and Brad Resureccion for their hard work and dedication in an investigation that led to the arrest of a burglar.
  • Officer Courtney Bello for his assistance in filing a missing person’s report on behalf of a Hilo couple.
  • Officer Luke Watkins for a follow-up call to inform a Puna resident that the property he found had been returned to its owner.
  • Officer Kyle Hirayama for returning a bag containing ID and cash to a man who lost it in Waikoloa.
  • Officers Aaron Kaleo, Jo Aoki, Robert Stewart, Eric Reyes and Detective Bradley Freitas for their assistance and support during the 7th DEA National Take-Back Initiative on October 26.

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Third Quarter 2013

  • Commendation from the chief

  • Officer Whitman McCallum received a Certificate of Merit for jumping into the water and saving two boys from possibly drowning while at Coconut Island with his family on April 27.

Letters from the public

  • Detectives Todd Pataray, Wendall Carter, George Makua, Dean Uyetake, Sergeant Zachary Fernando and Officer Aaron Kaleo for their participation in the Annual American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
  • Officer Ryan Pagan, Dispatchers Julie Yamanouchi and Linda Revell for helping a California woman determine that a family member was not missing.
  • Officers Kuilee Dela Cruz, Eric Ontiveros, Wyatt Kaili-Leong and Joel Furuto for putting out a fire in a residence before firefighters arrived on the scene.
  • Lieutenant Thomas Shopay for sharing the Police Department’s Active Shooter presentation with the deputy chief of police for the County of Kauai.
  • Lieutenants Gregory Esteban, Reed Mahuna, Detectives Joel Field, Ernest Matsumoto, Derek Morimoto, Brandon Konanui, Norbert Serrao, Sergeants Lorenzo Artienda, Darryel Tolentino, Officers Casey Cabral, Joseph Feliciano, Crystal Kekela, Keith Nacis, Ryan Pagan, Evidence Technician Lauren Wong and Fingerprint Technician Suzanne Kong for their fine investigation in State of Hawaii v. Robert Diego.
  • Assistant Chief Marshall Kanehailua, Captain Kenneth Bugado, Lieutenant Kenneth Quiocho, Sergeants Rio Amon-Wilkins and Regino Saludares, and Clerical Services Supervisor Sandi Anthony for opening up our accreditation process to personnel from the Kauai Police Department.
  • Officer Donovan Hegarty for his quick response and perceptiveness and for being police and courteous when responding to a report of a stolen laptop.
  • Sergeant Zachary Fernando for assisting the Boy Scouts as a Safety and Fingerprinting Merit Badge counselor.
  • Lieutenant Thomas Shopay for his “Active Shooter” presentation at a preschool in Honoka‘a.
  • Officers Kenneth Ishii, Manuel Benevides, Belinda Kahiwa and Lenny Sugiyama for their assistance with the Volcano Art Center Rain Forest Runs.
  • Captain Randal Ishii, Sergeant Floyd Richards and Officer Joseph Stender for taking proactive steps to assist a condominium community in addressing neighborhood problems.
  • Sergeant Juergen Canda and Officers James Pacheco, Bronson Kaliloa, Cala Arnold and Charles Martins for their professionalism in handling several incidents a Keaʻau man was involved in.
  • Sergeant Greg Yamada and Officer Christopher Ragasa for their assistance in changing a tire for a Mountain View couple.
  • Officer Dustin Sampaga for enduring an arrest incident with an uncooperative suspect.
  • Officer Ryan Pagan for helping to push a stalled car out of traffic.
  • Officers Stephen Kishimoto, Brian Hunt, Mike Thompson and Josiah Coe for their response to a Kailua-Kona home when a smoke alarm went off.
  • Officer Mark Arnold for driving a Keaʻau man home from Hilo after the man forgot where he parked his car and then later finding the car for him.
  • Detective Joshua Lewis for his outstanding work and determination in recovering jewelry stolen in resort burglary and returning it to the owner.
  • Officer Jason Grouns, Major James O’Connor, Lieutenant Darren Horio, Lieutenant Melvin Yamamoto, Detective George Makua, Officers Keith Nacis, James Steffen, William Brown, Lieutenant Robert Fujitake and his wife Jade, Detective Dean Uetake and his wife Trisha, Officers Earl Haskell, Matthew Kaaihue, Nicole Leyson, Sean Phelan, Steve Bugado, Chere Rae Lyons, Michael Rutkowski, Wyatt Kaili-Leong, Branden Watanabe, Donovan Hegarty, Charles Martins, Lawrence Kobayashi, Keith Simeona, Clive Okino, Corey Kaneko, Kimo Keliipaakaua, Kupono Mata, Michael Matsumura, Michael Lucas-Medeiros, Daniel Kuwabara, Duffy Duldulao, Paul Mangus and Recruit Officers Duane Rapoza Jr., Jeremiah Hull, Chad Fontes, Len Hamakado, Benhielden Del Toro, Matthew Medeiros and Paul Wright for their participation in the Cop on Top fundraiser in East Hawaii.
  • Officers Joseph Rocha, Murray Toledo and John Talich for their prompt and compassionate response to a break-in at a Kea‘au home.
  • Officers Kuilee Dela Cruz and William Vickery for volunteering at North Hawaiʻi Community Hospital for Clean-up Day.

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Second Quarter 2013

Commendation from the chief

  • Records Clerk Danielle Medeiros for her outstanding job performance, pleasant disposition and respectful attitude.

Letters from the public

  • Police Operations Clerks Carole Carvalho and Felista Sanchez for being helpful and cooperative during calls for assistance.
  • Firearms Registration Clerk Arlene Young for her patience and professionalism.
  • Officers Christopher Kapua-Allison and Kayla Kahuli for remaining calm and understanding while responding to resolve a chaotic event.
  • Officer William Brown for being instrumental in locking down a vacant house in Pāhoa Village with the authorization of the owners.
  • Officers Zachary Fernando, Aaron Yamanaka, Robert Border and John Kalauli for their work and contributions at a preschool.
  • Officers Coley Rowe, Robert Ayau and Bruce Parayno for their assistance when a man was yelling in a Kailua-Kona neighborhood during early morning hours.
  • Officer Kaeo Drummondo for his outstanding work in solving a rash of thefts at an elementary school.
  • Officers Frank Mohica and Nicole Leyson for addressing a community meeting in a Hilo neighborhood and Lieutenant John Briski for his assistance in setting up the meeting.
  • Officer Jason Grouns, Lieutenants Melvin Yamamoto, Darren Horio, John Briski, Sergeants Chris Correia, Dayne Bolos, Robert Pauole, Officers Matt Kaaihue, Amy Masuyama, Mike Santos, Mike Rutkowski, Kaui Wakita, Erhard Autrata, Wayne Kenison, Paul Mangus, Joseph Feliciano, Chere Rae Lyons, Corey Kaneko, Brian Beckwith, Tyler Jelsma, Brian Koge, Evidence Specialist Lauren Wong and Secretary Lynn Petersen for their participation in the Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run.
  • Officer Norman-Randy Caoagdan and Sergeant William Derr for helping an Ainaloa man through a difficult and traumatic experience.
  • Officers Brad Resureccion and Michael Abran for their professionalism when they responded to an auto accident.
  • Officers Dustin Chaves and Gavin Kagimoto for being professional, attentive and caring when responding to a report of domestic violence.
  • Documents Clerk Leila Tajiri for her support of Big Island Drug Court.
  • Dispatchers Annette Collins and Curtis Malia for helping a Pāhoa man who was having a mental health crisis.
  • Officer Ellsworth Fontes for being exceptional in his support, response and commitment to the needs of the community.
  • Officer Luke Watkins for his response and successful investigation of a theft.
  • Sergeant Greg Yamada for driving a woman to her doctor’s office while he was off duty after the woman was weaving on the highway due to a medical condition.
  • Reserve Officer Earl Haskell for his assistance at a boxing event.
  • Officers Brian Miller and Jo Aoki for their assistance and support of the 6th DEA National Take-Back Initiative on April 27.
  • Sergeant Grad Elarionoff and Officers Roland Kuamoo and Nicholas McDaniel for assisting the Waimea Outdoor Circle with a nature park construction project.
  • Officer Bobbie-Jo Sagon for assisting the United States Marshal’s office with a warrants campaign on Maui.
  • Officer Paul Isotani for assisting a man who was stranded on the road near Honokaʻa.
  • Officer William Brown for providing direction to a Leilani Estates man to help him address concerns with a neighbor.
  • Detective Scott Amaral for being compassionate, attentive and understanding and promptly returning a Pāhoa woman’s calls.
  • Officers Mike Thompson and Nicholas McDaniel for their calm response when a woman suffered a psychiatric breakdown.
  • Officers Tyler Prokopec and Wyatt Laili-Leong for helping the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office in Idaho locate the victim of a stolen firearm.
  • Sergeant Danette Tavares, Officer Paul Isotani and Officer Gregg Karonis for their kindness and caring when two women had car trouble.
  • Firearms Registration Clerk Arlene Young for her professionalism and helpfulness.
  • Acting Captain Reed Mahuna, Officer John Talich, Sergeant Willam Derr, Officer Kenneth Ishii and Officer William Brown for the work they do in the Puna District.
  • Officers Keith Simeona Jr., Nestor Cacho Jr., Joseph Picadura, Patrick Aurello and Lloyd Ishikawa for recovering three stolen vehicles and returning them to a business in Pāpaʻikou.
  • Officer Charrise Wakita for her compassion and professionalism, which made a traumatic and emotional time more endurable for a Hilo woman.
  • Officer Brant Powers for his professionalism during a traffic stop.
  • Lieutenant Melvin Yamamoto, Sergeant Reynold Kahalewai, Detective George Makua, Officers Jason Grouns, Keith Nacis, James Steffen, Michael Matsumura, Joseph Feliciano, Jon Carvalho, Reserve Officer John Stewart and Bruce Heidenfeldt for their participation in the 8th Annual “Tip a Cop” fundraiser for Special Olympics East Hawaiʻi.

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First Quarter 2013

Commendations from the chief

  • Captain Mitchell Kanehailua, Lieutenant Gregory Esteban, Detective Robert Almeida, Detective Wendall Carter, Detective Joel Field, Detective Ernest Matsumoto, Detective Derek Morimoto, Detective John Rodrigues, Detective Norbert Serrao, Detective Royce Serrao, Detective Grant Todd, Detective Todd Pataray, Evidence Specialist Jennifer Minaai and Evidence Specialist Lauren Wong for successfully investigating every incident during an unusually high number of major violent crimes from December 5, 2012, through February 12, 2013.
  • Officers Luke E. Watkins and Murray A. Toledo for the several hours of assistance they provided when two hikers got lost in the lava.
  • Lieutenant Nancy Haitsuka, Detectives David Araki and Renee Morinaka, Sergeant Calvin Delaries and Akira Edmoundson, Officers Paul Mangus, Jerome Manuel, Marlin Hopson, Dwayne Sluss, Jami Harper, Clinton Lewe Song, Sony Villesca, Mark Ohata, Ellsworth Fontes, and Reserve Officers Joseph Hing and Joseph Hing Jr. for their assistance and participation in the “Shop with a Cop” event.

Letters from the public

  • Officer Apollo Kepo‘o and Detective Sandor Finkey for their efforts in locating a missing man.
  • Officer Jon Carvalho for being polite and kind to a Pāpaʻikou woman during a traffic stop for driving while talking on her cell phone and making a left turn while a pedestrian was in the crosswalk.
  • Officer Christopher Ragasa for his assistance to the prosecutor’s office in preparing for a trial.
  • Officer Ryan Pagan for being a “class act.”
  • Detective Joshua Lewis for changing a man’s life when he was arrested for driving under the influence.
  • Detective Norbert Serrao for his assistance with a Pāhoa woman’s son.
  • Detective Brad Feliciano for finding a Kamuela man’s wallet while off duty and delivering it to the Waimea police station.
  • Officers Louie Ondo Jr., Casey Cabral, Ryan Pagan and Joseph Feliciano for their proficiency when responding to a report of a missing iPad.
  • Firearms Registration Clerk ArleneYoung, Senior Police Records Clerk Sharen Chaves and Police Records Clerks Lori Hara and Julie Ebanez for continuing to serve the public  courteously and in a professional manner, even though the Records and Identification staff have been “stretched to the max.”
  • Dispatcher Julia Yamanouchi for being admirable and praiseworthy.
  • Officers Zenas Paul Pacheco and Blake Ragocos for their assistance when a grounds keeper was attacked by pit bulls.
  • Officer Jon Carvalho for assistant when a man was involved in a collision on his motorcycle.
  • Officer Kayne Kelii for being a man of moral uprightness with scrupulous honesty.
  • Detective Craig Higaki for his exemplary support of the United States Marshal’s office in a warrants campaign on Kauai.
  • Officer Chere Rae Lyons for being very special and “a crowning illustration of compassion.”
  • Officer Earl Haskell for satisfactorily serving a boxing club event.
  • Officer Jeremy Kubojiri for assisting an 88-year-old man while off duty when the man’s car wouldn’t start.
  • Officers Erhard Autrata and Clarence Acob for helping a Hilo woman resolve a problem with her neighbor.
  • Captain Richard Miyamoto and Dispatchers Curtis Malia and Pegge Keawe for their assistance when a Paʻauilo woman called the Police Department.
  • Assistant Chief Paul Kealoha, Major Mitchell Kanehailua, Captain Samuel Kawamoto, Detectives Tod Bello, Craig Higaki, Scott Kurashige, Officers Daren Cho, Kristi Crivello, Robin Crusat, Bryan Ellis, Andres Fojas, Ellsworth Fontes, Stanley Haanio, Michael Hardie, BJ Sagon, Wyatt Kaili-Leong, John Pagay, Tyler Prokopec, Denise Smith, Scotty Aloy and Storeroom Clerk Michael Oshiro for their assistance with a fugitive sweep by the United States Marshals Service.
  • Officers Joseph Stender and Tyler Prokopec for Keiki ID services they provided at a Karate Family Fun Day.
  • Officer Patrick Kihara for recovering a stolen phone and bringing in a suspect within 24 hours after the phone was stolen from the victim.
  • Officer Corey Kaneko for recovering a stolen phone and arresting a suspect after the phone was stolen from a high school student while on campus.
  • Officer Chere Rae Lyons for her assistance when a couple from Illinois had their tires slashed while vacationing on Hawaiʻi Island.
  • Lieutenant William Souther, Sergeant Calvin Delaries, Officers Ellsworth Fontes, Joseph Stender, Darren Cho, Bryan Ellis and Robin Crusat for their assistance with a speeding problem in Kailua-Kona.

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Fourth Quarter 2012

Commendations from the chief:

  • Police Chaplain Arlene “Lani” Larrua for assistance she provided at the hospital after a traffic fatality.

Letters from the public

  • Officer Dwight Walker for his quick, thorough and professional response to a theft report.
  • Major James O’Connor, Lieutenants Darren Horio, Robert Fujitake, Nancy Haitsuka, Sergeants George Makua, Rollin Rabara, Detective Renee Morinaka, Officers Jason Grouns, Aaron Kaleo, William Brown, Keith Nacis, Chere Rae Lyons, Corey Kaneko, Michael Rutkowski, Dean Uyetake, Erhard Autrata, Richard Itliong, Oliver Agustin, Clarence Acob, Patrick Aurello, C. Kaui Wakita, Colin Pacheco, Keith Simeona, Victor McLellan, James Steffen, Mark Arnold, Michael Santos, Chuck Cobile, Matthew Kaaihue, Duffy Duldulao, Jeffrey Hirai, Erich Jackson, Marlin Hopson, Mike Thompson, Jason Foxworthy, Jason Lemaster, Paul Mangus, Sony Villesca, Clive Okino, Ellsworth Fontes, and Joseph Stender for their participation in the “Cop on Top” fundraiser for Special Olympics Hawai‘i.
  • Officer Patrick Aurello for his professional manner when interviewing residents after a break-in near their homes.
  • Officer Joseph Feliciano for demonstrating a caring, humble and kind manner to a woman who ran a red light.
  • Dispatchers Curtis Malia and Rowell Ching for their excellent listening skills and calm demeanor, which relieved and uplifted a Hilo woman.
  • Firearms Clerk Arlene Young for her professional yet cheerful and pleasant disposition when transferring ownership of a large quantity of firearms after a gun dealer died suddenly.
  • Officer Erhard Autrata for being courteous and helpful after a Hilo man’s car was “keyed” while parked in a shopping center.
  • Officers Edwin Namohala and Levon Stevens for their “A+” performance when they rendered assistance while off duty when a car was rear-ended.
  • Sergeant Robert Hatton and Officers Zenas Paul Pacheco and Corey Kaneko for their assistance to a Pāhoa woman.
  • Officers Zenas Paul Pacheco and Cory Hasegawa for the “utmost fair treatment” extended to a woman and her boyfriend.
  • Supervising Police Radio Dispatcher Donna-Frances Street for going out of her way to help a woman find a bench warrant.
  • Officer Jon Carvalho for his skillful assessment of a Hilo woman’s circumstances and his expert approach, which alleviated what had been a difficult situation.
  • Officer Aaron Carvalho for speaking to a Cub Scouts pack about the significance of Veterans Day and the importance of respecting and honoring veterans.
  • Officers Jeremy Kubojiri and Robert Pule for assisting a Hilo woman with a loose pit bull that was on her property.
  • Captain Richard Sherlock and Officer Jason Hamada for the assistance they provided in the recovery of a Sacramento man’s personal belongings.
  • Officer Ryan Domingo for saving a Hilo woman’s life and for applying emergency medical techniques that prevented her from losing an arm and a leg.
  • Officers Jonathan Bartsch, Dayton Tagaca, Davy Kamalii, Eric Uehana Sr., Ray Fukada, Paul Nagata, John Kahalioumi, Levon Stevens, Reserve Officer Julio Pasamonte and Special Duty Clerks Lani Akau and Rose Ann Granadosin, for their assistance with Papa Ola Lokahi’s annual gathering at Lapakahi State Park.
  • Officer Augustine Akiu for his quick response to a barking dog complaint.
  • Officer Chere Rae Lyons for her work in East Hawai‘i.
  • Dispatcher Dorothy Waiamau and Officer Marco Segobia for their compassion and professionalism when responding to a hit-and-run accident.

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Third Quarter 2012

Commendations from the chief:

  • Officer Scott Amaral for his high level of professionalism and his willingness to assist his fellow officers during the investigation of a terroristic threatening complaint at a public high school.

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  • Officer Henry Chong for going “above and beyond” his call of duty to assist a woman and her son when they had car trouble at the entrance to Kole Kole Beach Park.
  • Officers Cal-Jason Hoopai, Eric Uehana Jr., Cory Gray, Brett Winther, Paula Jelsma, Justin Hooser, Brandon Mansur, Bradden Kimura, Darren Cho, Michael Hardie, Charles Adams, and Reserve Officers Joseph Hing and Joseph Hing Jr. for their service at the Kona Marathon.
  • Captain Aimee Wana and Officer Severo Ines for their kindness and compassion to the occupants of a car that caught fire on the Saddle Road.
  • Officer Joseph Feliciano for taking immediate steps to return a Hilo man’s debit card even though he was off duty and with his family at the time.
  • Lieutenants Darren Horio, Thomas Shopay, Robert Fujitake (and his wife, Jade), Officers Aaron Kaleo, Daniel Rances, David Reis III, Peter Fernandez, Reserve Officer Grace Castillo, Operations Clerks Elena Kawazoe, Karen Hamada, Maxine Yamashiro, and Fingerprint Technician Suzanne Kong for their service at a Bowl-a-Thon fundraiser for Special Olympics Hawaiʻi.
  • Lieutenant Thomas Shopay for assisting the Protective Service Bureau of the U.S. Capitol’s Dignitary Protection Division with Senator Daniel Inouye’s security detail on July 2.
  • Officer Jonathan Bartsch for his assistance in securing the return of a child who was being held by his father in violation of a Family Court restraining order.
  • Captain Albert Jason Cortez for being “a godsend” to the North Kohala community.
  • Officer Michael Hardie for his assistance with the United States Marshal’s Service’s outstanding warrants campaign on Oahu.
  • Officers Coley Rowe, Michael Abran, Robert Ayau and Aaron Cork for the assistance they provided to a Kona woman during a difficult situation.
  • Officers Peter Tourigny and Bruce Parayno for the exemplary manner in which they handled a barking dog complaint.
  • Officers Calvin Delaries, Ellsworth Fontes and Paul Mangus for assisting a victim of a potential scam.
  • Officer Peter Tourigny for investigating an abuse of a child.
  • Officer Kimo Keliipaakaua for being kind and profound when providing assistance to a Hilo woman.
  • Officers Earl Haskell and Shawn Ibarra for assisting with a boxing event.
  • Officers Joshua Gouveia and Paul Kim for lecturing at a UH Hilo class in “Introduction to Legal Systems.”
  • Officer Corey Kaneko and Joshua Gouveia for helping a woman and her friend when their car broke down on the side of the road.
  • Officer Danton Zimmermann for his compassion and kindness, which helped make a Hilo woman’s difficulties more manageable.
  • Officer Dane Shibuya for his concern and assistance when a Kealakekua woman’s car stalled in a remote area.
  • Officer Brent Foster for assisting with the installation of new traffic signs in front of a church in Waimea.
  • Officer Paul Kim for conducting inspections of commercial vehicles for the State of Hawai*i Department of Transportation.
  • Acting Sergeant Calvin Delaries Jr., Officers Joseph Stender, Tyler Prokopec, Paul Mangus, Bryan Ellis, Darren Cho and Ellsworth Fontes for their support of the “National Night Out” event in Kona.
  • Officers William Vickery and Eric Ontiveros for listening to a Waikoloa woman’s concerns, treating her respectfully and assisting her satisfactorily.
  • Officer James Waiamau for his professionalism in handling a Pāhoa woman’s complaint.
  • Detective Chad Taniyama, Officers Kyle Hirayama, Kuilee Dela Cruz, Edward Lewis and William Vickery for making a notable difference in Waikoloa and Assistant Chief Paul Kealoha and Captain Aimee Wana for their significant leadership..
  • Dispatcher Michelle Shiroma for being professional, courteous and patient when a Hilo woman called out of concern for an elderly neighbor.
  • Officers Dane Shibuya, Blaine Morishita and Reserve Officer William Doar for providing Keiki ID for students of Pāhala Elementary School.
  • Detective Scott Kurashige, Officers Brett Winther, Paul Mangus, Jeremy Riddle and Kelsey Kobayashi for providing traffic control at the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament.
  • Officers Belinda Kahiwa, Bobbie-Jo Sagon, William Brown and Lenny Sugiyama for their service at the Volcano Art Center Rain Forest Runs.
  • Officer Earl Haskell for assisting with security at a boxing event in Puna.
  • Sergeant Dominic Uyetake, Officers Henry Ivy and Clifford Antonio for their excellent teamwork in assisting Fire Department personnel with the control and extinguishment of a fire and the treatment of a victim.
  • Sergeant Grad Elarionoff, Detective Renee Morinaka and Officer Vaughn Kelii for helping to keep a situation under control after a group home burglary in Captain Cook.

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Second Quarter 2012

Commendations from the chief

  • Officers Clinton Lewe Song, Sharon Yoon, Jensen Rodrigues and Steven Parker for participating in D.A.R.E. Day on their own time to support the event.

Letters from the public

  • Captain Richard Miyamoto, Sergeants Jefferson Grantz and Dannette Tavares, Officers Daniel Rances, Kapelieli Kauahikaua,  Gregg Karonis, DuWayne Waipa and Zachary Fernando, and Reserve Officer Joseph Lally for their presence during a court-ordered eviction of uncooperative tenants.
  • Detective Robert Almeida, Officer Lawrence Kobayashi, and Reserve Officers Henry Chong, Thomas Waltjen, Paul Yoshioka, Manuel Benevides and Lenny Sugiyama for assisting at the Big Island International marathon.
  • Officers Henry Ivy and James Lorenzo for assisting in a “close-out” in a court-ordered eviction.
  • Lieutenant Darren Horio, Sergeants Reynold Kahalewai and Robert Pauole, Officers Jason Grouns, Matthew Kaaihue, Chris Correia, Joseph Botelho and Scott Amarall, and Secretary Lynn Peterson for their participation at the Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.
  • Officer Michael Rutkowski for his considerate and competent actions when handling a Nevada woman’s stolen purse report.
  • Sergeant BJ Duarte for his efforts in getting an offensive sign removed from a property in a Pāhoa neighborhood.
  • Officer Robert Stewart for a drug presentation for an Administration of Justice class at Hawaiʻi Community College.
  • Officer Henry Ivy and John Smith Jr. for recovering property and displaying concern for the victim.
  • Officer Peter Tourigny for assisting a couple whose car was broken into while they were here on vacation.
  • Officer Matthew Bartz for his care and kindness when a man died while swimming at Ahalanui Park.
  • Captain Robert Wagner for providing a Hilo woman with proper, fitting and ethical suggestions.
  • Officer Todd Pataray for being a peacemaker who considerately offered sensible, therapeutic words to a Hilo woman during what she described as a “nerve-wracking ordeal.”
  • Sergeant Kelly Matsumoto, Officers Patrick Menino and Jason Grouns, and Clerical Services Supervisor Sandi Anthony for accommodating a tour of the Hilo police station by students from Hawaiʻi Community College.
  • Officers Stephen Parker and Justin Gaspar for their quick response to Kailua Pier after someone attempted to sell drugs to children during paddling practice.
  • Officers Donovan Lee Kohara, Chuck Cobile and Malia Bohol for the assistance they render to the Hilo community and businesses, resulting in positive outcomes.
  • Officers Casey Cabral and Garrett Hatada for being effective peacemakers and undeviating problem solvers who provided clear-cut instructions.
  • Sergeant Kelley Matsumoto and the Dispatch staff for their support to the HUIANA Student Inters and HUIANA Internship program.
  • Officer Earl Haskell for his service at the Yeshua Boxing Club event in April.
  • Officer Wayne Kenison for rendering an unbiased opinion and satisfactory reasons, which mollifed a Hilo woman’s anxiety.
  • Detective Chad Taniyama for all his help, which was greatly appreciated.
  • Officer Crystal Kekela for her compassion and kindness and “Crystal” clear advice to a Hilo woman.
  • Officers Aaron Yamanaka, Nelson Acob and Vern Ferreira for providing security for Waiakeawaena Elementary School’s May Day performance at the Civic Auditorium.
  • Officer Nicholas McDaniel for his professional demeanor and caring heart when he responded to a car crash.
  • Officer Patrick Menino for conducting a tour of the Police Department for a group of seniors during Police Week.
  • Officer Joseph Botelho Jr. for organizing HI-PAL basketball tournaments.
  • Officer Todd Pataray for assisting in Hilo Medical Center’s 2012 Emergency Preparedness Fair.
  • Officer Aaron Yamanaka for his work as a school resource officer at Honokaʻa High and Intermediate School.
  • Sergeant William Gary Souther, Officers Tyler Prokopec, Leonard Warren, Derrick Kenison, Amy Matsuyama, Robert Ayau, Steven Burkey, Calvin Delaries, Kelena Hookano and Nicholas McDaniel for participating in the Great Aliʻi Hele-On Bus Pull and Detective Renee Morinaka, Sergeant Thomas Shopay, Officers Calvin Delaries, Tyler Prokopec, Sharon Yoon, Shane Davis, Joshua Dumont, Kuilee Delacruz, Clive Okino, Sony Villesca, Jamie Harper, Peter Tourigny, Reserve Officer Joseph Hing and Investigative Operations Clerk Debra Yamashiro for participating in the West Hawaiʻi Troy Barboza Torch Run, both events to benefit Special Olympics.
  • Captain Mitchell Kanehailua, Lieutenants Sherry Bird and Ian Lee Loy, Detectives Brian Miller, Brad Feliciano, Chad Taniyama, James Correa, Steven Correia and Brandon Konanui,  Officers David Reis III, Aaron Kaleo, Carrie Akina, Joslyn Kabalis, Jo Aoki, Erich Jackson, Kalae Lee, David Matsushima, Mekia Rose, Scotty Aloy, Greg Ikeda and Robert Stewart for their dedication and professionalism while participating in a national interdiction operation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service targeting the importation of illegal controlled substances into the Hawaiian Islands and the U.S. Territory of Guam.
  • Lieutenant Darren Horio, Sergeants Reynold Kahalewai and George Makua, Detective Rio Amon-Wilkins, and Officers William Brown, Michael Rutkowski, Michael Santos, Mark Arnold, Dean Uyetake, Corey Kaneko, Keith Nacis, Robert Pule, Matthew Lewis, Matthew Kaaihue, Joseph Feliciano and Peter Tourgny for raising more than $3,000 for Special Olympics during the 7th Annual Tip a Cop fundraiser at Ken’s House of Pancakes and Don’s Grill.
  • Officer Ellsworth Fontes for relaying information on behalf of someone who was not at liberty to do so himself and, as a result, instilling feelings of hope in that individual.
  • Captain Mitchell Kanehailua, Lieutenant Gregory Esteban, and Detectives Derek Morimoto and Ernest Matsumoto for the arrest of a financial and cyber crime suspect following a successful joint sting operation with the State of Hawaiʻi’s Office of Consumer Protection.
  • Captain Richard Sherlock, Officer Ellsworth Fontes and Officer Randy Morris for their assistance in locating a fraud and cyber crimes suspect for the State of Hawaiʻi’s Office of Consumer Protection.
  • Captain Robert Wagner, Sergeants George Makua and Alan Watanabe, Officers Clarence Acob, Chuck Cobile, Vernon Ferreira, Clarence Davies, Joshua Lewis, Larry Flowers, Nelson Acob, Nicole Leyson and Frank Mohica for their support at Hale Pōhaku, Mauna Kea Access Road and Mauna Kea summit for an estimated 1,000 visitors’ viewing of the rare transit of Venus.
  • Sergeant Christopher Gali and Officer Benjamin Nishimoto for their compassion and professionalism when communicating with a Massachusetts woman whose son was hospitalized after being hit by a vehicle while riding his bicycle.
  • Officer Joseph Passmore and Captain Samuel Jelsma for assisting with the service of a temporary restraining order.
  • Officers Shawn Ibarra and Sheldon Salmo for comforting a Hōnaunau woman and helping her defuse what she described as a “crisis situation.”

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First Quarter 2012

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  • Officers Kupono Mata, Cala Arnold, Shaine Tavares, Daniel Kuwabara, Azia Maze and William Brown, and Reserve Officers Darrell Huston and Paul Yoshioka for their assistance at the Pāhoa holiday parade.
  • Officers John Smith, Gary Sojot, Michael Dubberstein, Henry Ivy, Clifford Antonio, Blaine Morishita and Augustine Akiu for their assistance when telephone wires got crossed in an Ocean View neighborhood, causing repeated phantom dropped 911 calls from a home over a four-day period.
  • Officers William Marciniak and Derek Kenison for their assistance, which led to a mutually agreeable resolution to a dispute between neighbors.
  • Officer Kenneth Walker for his assistance when a California man lost his wallet.
  • Lieutenant Burt Shimabukuro, Sergeants Thomas Shopay and Akira Edmoundson, Detective James Gusman and Officers Henry Ivy and Daniel Rances for assisting the United States Capitol Police with a visit to the Big Island by Nancy Pelosi.
  • Jeremy “Scotty” Lewis for his service and aloha spirit when he responded to a landlord-tenant dispute.
  • Officer May Lee for her efforts in investigating an assault against a Canadian visitor.
  • Officers John Balberde and Donovan Lee Kohara for their assistance and sensitivity when they responded to a domestic complaint.
  • Officer Keng Singleton for his assistance in a tenant-landlord problem.
  • Lieutenant Darren Horio, Sergeant Rollin Rabara and Officer Cory Hasegawa for their assistance with canoe races for Special Olympics Hawai‘i.
  • Detectives John Rodrigues Jr. and Royce Serrao for solving a burglary the day after the daughter of an elderly victim called Detective Rodrigues to express her concerns for the woman’s safety.
  • Officers Patrick Menino and Jason Grouns for their outstanding job of engaging teenagers and answering questions at a career opportunities expo.
  • Officer Earl Haskell for his service at a Yeshua Boxing Club event.
  • Detectives Robert Almeida and Ernest Matsumoto Jr. for speaking to the staff of a credit union about robbery readiness.
  • Officers Aaron Kaleo and Peter Fernandez for assisting with a gambling investigation on another island.
  • Officers Stephen Parker, Tyler Prokopec, Shane Davis and Dwayne Sluss for donating their time and efforts to the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce for an after-hours networking event to benefit children.
  • Officers Zachary Fernando and Aaron Yamanaka for their presentation on safety awareness in the workplace for state library branch managers.
  • Detective Bradley Freitas and Officers Leonard Warren and Aaron Cork for their presence at a Fire Commission meeting.
  • Officer Todd Pataray for his presentation at the Sunrise Estates Community Association’s annual meeting.
  • Officer Frank Mohica for his presentation on Career Day at Connections Public Charter School.
  • Officers Roylen Valera and Zachary Fernando for assisting preschoolers with a trick-or-treat walk.
  • Officers Zachary Fernando and Aaron Yamanaka for sharing safety matters at a preschool.
  • Detective Jason Berryhill and Officers Brent Foster and Edwin Buyten for their investigative work that helped the U.S. Secret Service disrupt a counterfeit manufacturing plant and arrest all suspects committing the fraud.
  • Officer Kimo Keliipaakaua and Blake Ragocos for their professionalism when assisting UH-Hilo security with a case involving students smoking marijuana.
  • Officer Clarence Davies for being polite and courteous when he stopped a Washington man for speeding on Saddle Road.
  • Officer Dane Shibuya for returning a generator that was stolen from an Ocean View home.
  • Lieutenants Darren Horio, Robert Fujitake and Gregory Esteban, Sergeants Regino Saludares, Greg Yamada and George Makua, Detective James Correa, Officers Jason Grouns, Aaron Carvalho, Dean Uyetake, Michael Rutkowski, Keith Nacis, Aaron Kaleo, Chris Correia, Kelly Moniz, Gabriel Wilson, Oliver Agustin, James Pacheco, Clarence Acob, Duffy Duldulao, Charrise Wakita, Cory Hasegawa, Donovan Kohara, Matthew Kaaihue, John Balberde, Richard Itliong, Erhard Autrata, Joseph Feliciano and Daniel Rances, and Records Clerk Danielle Medeiros for participating in the Fueling Dreams fund-raiser for Special Olympics Hawai‘i.
  • Officers William Brown, Sandor Finkey and Reserve Officer Michael DeCoito for participating in a video production of “If I Neva Do That” for Kea‘au High School’s athletic department and to Assistant Chiefs Marshall Kanehailua and Henry Tavares, Major Randy Apele and Captain Samuel Jelsma for their assistance.

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Fourth Quarter 2011

Commendations from the chief:

  • Officers Dale Ku and Ray Fukada for preventing a very depressed and suicidal man from killing himself.
  • Deputy Police Chief Paul Ferreira, Assistant Chiefs Marshall Kanehailua, Henry Tavares and Paul Kealoha, Captain James O’Connor, Detectives Craig Higaki, Tod Bello, and Bradley Freitas, Officers Michael Hardie,  Stanley Haanio, Bobbie-Jo Sagon, John Pagay, Edwin Buyten, and Darren Cho, Information Systems Analyst Sandra Tokeshi, Chief’s Secretary Lynn Miyamoto and Area II Secretary Darnella Villanueva for their roles in helping the Hawaiʻi Police Department host the 58th Annual Hawaiʻi State Law Enforcement Officials Association conference.

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  • Officer Todd Pataray for his participation in a new student orientation at UH Hilo
  • Officer Denise Smith-Erickson for her outstanding service in response to a burglary.
  • Officers Earl Haskell and Shawn Ibarra for their service at a boxing club event.
  • Officer Jonathan Bartsch for his quick response and follow up to a dog barking complaning.
  • Captain Robert Wagner and Lieutenants Albert Jason Cortez and Gregory Esteban for assisting a hospital with a situation involving a former patient involved in a stabbing incident.
  • Officer Stanley Kaina for his good judgment when he recognized signs of electrical meter tampering.
  • Lieutenant Gregory Esteban for his quick response in contacting a woman about next-of-kin notification.
  • Sergeant Greg Yamada and Officers Angitau Faʻanunu and Edmundo Palacol for assisting a Hilo couple’s daughter when she was involved in an automobile accident at Kaʻawalii gulch.
  • Officer Paul Kim for participating in roadside inspection training and certification for the state Department of Transportation.
  • Lieutenant Gregory Esteban, Detective Grant Todd, Sergeant Christopher Gali and Officers Keith Nacis, Nicholas McDaniel, Casey Cabral, Kayla Kahuli, Kelsey Kobayashi and Aaron Yamanaka for their assistance in conducting a thorough search for a missing 87-year-old man.
  • Firearms Registration Clerk Arlene Young for her professionalism, efficiency and courteousness during the registration of firearms.
  • Officers Shawn Matsuda and Brian Markham for their thorough and professional manner when responding to a domestic violence call.
  • Officer John Balberde for the excellent work he did when investigating a break-in into a vehicle.
  • Officer Patrick Kihara for his intergrity, professionalism and compassion when pulling over a Hilo woman for an expired safety inspection.
  • Officers Chrisotpher Kapua-Allison and Erhard Autrata for their professionalism and impressionable conduct while performing a successful an undercover operation for stolen property.
  • Officer Mark Arnold for the way he handled a howling dog complaint.
  • Special Duty Clerk Andrea Akau and Officers Dayton Tagaca, Clinton Lewe Song, John Kahalioumi, Jonathan Bartsch, Davy Kamalii and Paul Nagata for special duty assignments during an annual gathering by Papa Ola Lokahi.
  • Officer Thomas Koyanagi for his courtesy and professionalism when he pulled a man over for speeding.
  • Dispatcher Linda Revell and Officers Donovan Lee Kohara and Michael Santosfor being and prompting glowing praise from a Hilo woman for being assets to the Police Department.

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Third Quarter 2011

Commendations from the chief:

  • Officer Marlin Hopson and Officer Gregg Karonis for reviving a man with CPR after he collapsed in a Kona courtroom (Certificate of Merit).
  • Sergeant Darryel Tolentino and Officers Casey Cabral, Crystal Kekela, Joseph Feliciano, Ryan Pagan and Keith Nacis for the leadership, team work and investigative skills when the stopped an attempted murder in progress and arrested the suspect.

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  • Account Clerk Marilou Carvalho for her assistance with the Merrie Monarch Festival’s Royal Parade.
  • Officer Dane Shibuya for his assistance with an American Red Cross “Hats Off” fundraiser.
  • Captain Andrew Burian and Detectives Bradley Freitas and Renee Morinaka for their assistance with a federal sexual assault case for Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
  • Officer Gregory Ikeda for sharing his knowledge of blood sports with staff from the Hawaiʻi Island Humane Society.
  • Officers Aaron Yamanaka and Johnathan Kailiuli for assisting a Hilo couple when their car stalled.
  • Officers Earl Haskell and Tuckloy Aurello for providing assistance to the Yeshua Outreach Center with a boxing event.
  • Sergeant Robert Hatton and Records Clerk Sonya Taosaka-Kelii for their polite, helpful and professional conduct when speaking to an investigator with the Office of the Public Defender.
  • Officer Adrian Ruiz for his intuition and outstanding investigation that led to the discovery of a glitch in the register system at a store, which caused a customer to be charged for an expense he did not incur.
  • Officers Jami Harper and Aaron Cork for their assistance and good deed at the Kona library.
  • Officers Larry Flowers, Marlin Hopson and Gregg Karonis for their expedient assistance in rendering CPR to a grand juror who collapsed.
  • Officer Andres Fojas for his “most pleasant, respectful and kind” demeanor during a traffic stop.
  • Officer James Waiamau for his compassion while making notification to a woman about her daughter’s involvement in a serious traffic accident.
  • Captain Samuel Kawamoto Jr. for his assistance and guidance to Kona employees of a national corporation.
  • Officer Darryl Castillo for his outstanding service investigating thefts of catalytic converters.
  • Sergeants Cory Koi and Dominic Uyetake, Officers Robin Crusat and Dane Shibuya, and Reserve Officer William Doar for providing Keiki ID at Kaʻū  High and Pāhala Elementary School.
  • Captain Andrew Burian, Officers Dane Shibuya, Richard Carter Jr., Darrell Clinton and John Smith for providing a calming and reassuring presence at a meeting at the Pahala Communty Center.
  • Officer Robin Crusat and Reserve Officer Joseph Hing Sr. for providing Keiki ID at the Waikoloa Village Outdoor Circle’s Wiliwili Festival.
  • Officer Lawrence Kobayashi for his command presence, professionalism and aloha at the scene of an auto accident.
  • Officers William Brown, Jesse Kerr, Belinda Kahiwa and Shawn Matsuda for the great job they did at the Volcano Art Center Rain Forest Runs.
  • Captain Mitchell Kanehailua and Officer Roylen Valera for welcoming preschool children into the Honoka‘a police station during Police Week.
  • Lieutenant Robert Fujitake, Officers Chuck Cobile, Jason Grouns, Chere-Rae Lyons, Clarence Acob, Duffy Duldulao, Clarence Acob, Jon Carvalho, Erhard Autrata, Mike Santos and Reserve Officer Cacique Melendez for participating in the “Cop on Top” fundraiser for Special Olympics Hawaiʻi.

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Second Quarter 2011

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  • Officers Davy Kamalii, John Kahalioumi, Scott Dewey, Rick Nery and Levon Stevens for assisting at a cultural event at Lapakahi State Park and Duty Clerk Lani Akau for her help in providing special duty officers.
  • Sergeants Charles Adams and Grad Elarionoff, Detectives Tyson Matsumura and Chad Taniyama and Officer Edwin Buyten for supporting the U.S. Secret Service to combat counterfeit Federal Reserve Notes and check fraud, bank fraud, credit card fraud and embezzlement.
  • Captain Andrew Burian, Sergeants Dominic Uyetake and Bradley Freitas, Officers Dane Shibuya, John Smith Jr., William Simpson IV, John McCarron, Darren Cho and Police Operations Clerk Patti Mlakar for assisting employees of the Corporation Counsel office with an inspection of county property in Kaʻu.
  • Officer Dane Shibuya for being an “ideal policeman.”
  • Officer Erhard Autrata for his professionalism, courtesy and display of aloha at a seat belt checkpoint.
  • Evidence Custodian Roni Rochester for her assistance in returning a Canadian woman’s personal belongings that were recovered in a found property case.
  • Officers Stan Haanio and Bobbie-Jo Sagon for their participation in a Hawaiʻi Fugitive Task Force operation on Maui.
  • Lieutenant Albert Jason Cortez, Detective John Briski, Sergeant Dayne Bolos, Officers Jason Grouns, William Brown, Daniel Rances, Scott Amaral, Aaron Carvalho, Chris Correia, Matthew Kaaihue, Keith Nacis, the 79th Recruit Class, Criminalist Brian Koge, Secretary Lynn Miyamoto and Information Systems Analyst Linda Nako for participating in the Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run.
  • Sergeant George Makua and his patrol officers and Lieutenant Albert Jason Cortez and his community police officers for their efforts to ensure a safer downtown Hilo.
  • Officer Charrise Wakita for the courteous and helpful service she provided when a Hilo couple called for assistance after losing a key at the Merrie Monarch Parade.
  • Officers Robert Panem and Todd Pataray for their assistance at Laupāhoehoe  School’s community service project.
  • Captain Samuel Kawamoto for his quick response to a Kona woman’s concerns.
  • Officer Clarence Yee for his efforts in returning found earrings to their owner.
  • Officers Darryl Castillo, Gavin Kagimoto and Aaron Abalos for helping a Hilo woman locate her car in downtown Hilo.
  • Officer Shawn Ibarra for being prompt, professional and polite during a special duty assignment.
  • Detective Ian Lee Loy and Officer Peter Fernandez for their assistance during the Drug Enforcement Administration’s national drug take-back initiative.
  • Sergeant Thomas Shopay for his presentation before the Big Island Visitor Security Association and Captains Samuel Kawamoto and James Sanborn for serving as liaisons at the association’s meetings.
  • Officers Kenneth Ishii and Charles Martins for helping a man get home after he lost his glasses.
  • Officers Todd Pataray and Nelson Acob, Reserve Officers Lenny Sugiyama, DuWayne Waipa, Aubrey Auna, Manny Benevides, Burton Yamaguchi and Paul Yoshioka for volunteering their time to support the Fire Department’s annual Emergency Medical Services Week festivities.

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First Quarter 2011

Commendations from the chief:

  • Officer Carrie Akina received a Bronze Medal of Merit for personally rescuing a 37-year-old New York swimmer in distress.
  • Officer Frank J. Mohica for using his rapport with the community to investigate and solve an assault case involving a homeless victim who hadn’t reported his attack.
  • Captain Mitchell Kanehailua for puarchasing FBI National Academy service bars to be presented to the Police Department’s FBI National Academy graduates.
  • Human Resources Program Specialist II Amy Miyao for her dynamic energy and enthusiastic participation in fundraisers for the American Heart Association and numerous other worthwhile causes.

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  • Officer Christopher Kapua-Allison for his comfort and help when a Pāhoa woman was involved in an accident.
  • Officer Colin Pacheco for recovering an iPod Touch that was stolen after a 10-year-old boy left it at a fast food restaurant.
  • Captain Mitchell Kanehailua for allowing Officer Roylen Valera to visit with preschool children and Officer Valera for his participation, including offering tips on safe trick-or-treating.
  • Sergeant Danette Tavares and Officers Jason Smith, Dion Santiago and Kelvin Andrade for their assistance in mentoring students at Honokaʻa Elementary School.
  • Officer Larry Flowers for his professionalism when he stopped a Pennsylvania man for speeding.
  • Officers Blake Ragocos and Aron Tomota for making their presence known as a large line of customers waited for a store to open on “Black Friday.”
  • Officer Shaine Tavares for helping a Hilo woman retrieve a purse that was left at the Keaʻau High School campus after a soccer game.
  • Officer Mark Arnold for his assistance involving a New York man’s daughter.
  • Officer Brett Winther for his quick response and assistance when a Waikoloa man was involved in a hit-and-run incident.
  • Officers Earl Haskell and Sahine Tavares for their services during a boxing event in Keaʻau.
  • Officers Todd Pataray and Nicole Leyson for their assistance in a Hilo bayfront beach cleanup project.
  • Detective Craig Higaki for his assistance when a law enforcement training team came to the Big Island to teach a class in cybercrime investigation.
  • Officer Kimo Keliipaakaua for his excellent “customer service” after a Paʻauilo woman was involved in a traffic accident.
  • Officer Mark Ohata for successfully solving a shoplifting case.
  • Officers Robert Almeida and Joseph Botelho Jr. for speaking to a youth group.
  • Officer Andres Fojas Jr. for tracing stolen items to a speeding motorist.
  • Sergeant Juergen Canda for his demeanor and professionalism in defusing a situation before it escalated into something worse.
  • Officer Shawn Tingle for his professionalism in handling a situation involving a teacher, an administrator and a health specialist on a school campus.
  • Officer Vernon Ferreira for his diligence in resolving a neighborhood problem in Hilo.
  • Officer Ronald Paro for removing a fallen tree that had blocked a road in the Hawaiian Beaches subdivision.
  • Officer Roylen Valera for engaging the attention of children during a presentation at Parker Lower School.
  • Officers Zenas Pacheco and Blaine Morishita for assisting a Hilo woman who had recurring problems with a difficult neighbor.
  • Officer Kelvin Andrade for assisting a 75-year-old man and woman in replacing a flat tire.
  • Detectives Tod Bello and Craig Higaki and Officers Stanley Haanio, Michael Hardie, John Pagay and Bobbie-Jo Sagon for providing assistance and support to the Hawaiʻi Fugitive Task Force and U.S. Marshals Service during a warrant sweep in February.

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Fourth Quarter 2010

Commendations from the chief:

  •  Officer Davy Kamalii for volunteering his time while on vacation to referee a 3-on-3 basketball event.
  • Captain James O’Connor and Officers Bobbie-Jo Sagon and John Masa Pagay for assisting the U.S. Department of State by locating a person wanted for questioning when a high-profile official visited Honolulu.
  • Dispatcher Roydon Kobayashi and Officer Cala Arnold for assisting a retired employee and putting her at ease when she experienced car trouble.
  • Lieutenant Gerald Wike for his exemplary efforts in leading and directing the investigation of an assault in progress.

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  •  Captain Samuel Jelsma for participating in a tabletop exercise at Kamehameha Schools.
  • Sergeant Kenneth Quiocho, Detective Paul Fukuda and Officer Mark Arnold for recovering a stolen truck and other stolen items owned by a Kamuela man.
  • Assistant Chief Derek Pacheco and Officer John Talich for their assistance when a Hilo man lost his car keys.
  • Lieutenant Melvin Yamamoto Jr. and Officers Bryan Ellis, Kaeo Drummondo and Mike Thompson for helping a process server with a case in which the subjects were suspected of possessing weapons.
  • Reserve Officers Joseph Hing Sr. and Joseph Hing Jr. for providing police presence and assisting with parking at a surfing event.
  • Officer Jeremy Kubojiri for his assistance when a woman was involved in a minor traffic accident.
  • Lieutenant Albert Jason Cortez and Officers Jesse Kerr and Shawn Tingle for assisting a vice principal and more than 400 Hilo Union School students as they walked to and from the Palace Theater to attend plays.
  • Officer Bryan Ellis for assisting a woman who ran out of gas when he was off duty.
  • Officers Matthew Kaaihue and Joshua Gouveia for assisting a 75-year-old woman after she fell.
  • Detectives Robert Fujitake and Norbert Serrao for their investigative work on a burglary at a Hilo business, leading to several arrests.
  • Officers Scott Amaral, Jesse Kerr and John Stewart for their participation in Puna AYSO’s annual Kids’ Zone Day.
  • Sergeant Travis Ing for providing a tour of the dispatch section to a class from Hawaiʻi Community College.
  • Sr. Records Clerk Sharen Chaves for making a presentation to a class at Hawaiʻi Community College.
  • Sergeant William Gary Souther and Officer Robin Crusat for providing Keiki ID services during the Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Week celebration.
  • Officer Robert Almeida for helping with an evacuation drill at E. B. De Silva Elementary School.
  • Officer Wyattlane Nahale for his assistance with a man who wanted advice about taking out a temporary restraining order.
  • Officer Matthew Lewis for his kindness and assistance when a Hilo couple’s car stalled while they were en route to a funeral.
  • Officer Sandor Finkey for joining a class of 6th graders in preparing for and participating in sign waving for the Great American Smoke Out.
  • Officer Mark Arnold for assisting a Hilo woman with a custody matter.
  • Dispatchers Charisse Correa and Tracy Bolos, Sergeant Darryel Tolentino and Officers Blaine Morishita and Oliver Agustin for checking on a Hilo couple at their home after a dropped 911 call.
  • Officer Darren Cho for his presentation at an annual Neighborhood Watch clean-up and pot-luck lunch.
  • Officers Dean Uyetake and John Balberde for assisting a Pāpaʻikou man when his tire shredded and became entangled with the gasoline intake line.
  • Officers Marlin Hopson and Jason Foxworthy for the compassion they showed to a baby in the hospital and her family after an accident.
  • Officers Blaine Morishita and Zenas Pacheco for their quick action leading to the prompt return of a stolen car radio.
  • Officer Cory Gray for rendering advice to a Hōlualoa man to prevent a minor incident from escalating into something more serious.
  • Lieutenant Richard Sherlock, Sergeant Steven Correia and Officers Peter Fernandez, Daylan Auncion, Gregory Ikeda and Mark Arnold for helping the Drug Enforcement Administration with an investigation into a drug trafficking organization based in Hilo.
  • Sergeant Darrell Huston for donating personal time and professional services to St. Joseph School’s 23rd Annual Country Fair.
  • Officer Brent Foster for being a positive influence as a School Resource Officer at Konawaena Middle School.
  • Officer Robert Keffer for his professionalism when investigating odors coming from a Pāhoa woman’s water catchment tank.
  • Captain Andrew Burian, Captain Samuel Jelsma and Officer James Lorenzo for their hospitality when a representative from the Kauai Police Department visited the Kaʻū police station.
  • Officer Victor McLellan for handling an incident at Keauhou Bay with professionalism and efficiency.
  • Officer Justin Gaspar for helping a family put air in a tire and offering encouraging comments about their loved one serving in Afghanistan.
  • Officers John Talich, Murray Toledo, James Waiamau and Donovan Hegarty and Dispatcher Ramona Torres for their compassion and professionalism when providing service to a Pāhoa woman who reported hearing someone on her property.
  • Officers Scott Amaral, Shawn Tingle and Tuckloy Aurello for their assistance during an evacuation drill at Keaʻau Middle School.
  • Officer Robert Panem for his diligence in returning a Maine family’s lost iPod Touch.
  • Detective Craig Higaki for finding and returning $200 that was dropped in a store.
  • Operations Clerk Patti Mlakar for her expertise, skill and kindness and Officer John Smith for his compassion and professionalism when a Nāʻālehu resident made complaints about harassment.
  • Sergeant Dayne Bolos and Officer Luke Watkins for being professional and courteous when a Pāhoa man received a speeding citation.
  • Officer John “Masa” Pagay for being great with students back when he was a school resource officer at Hilo Intermediate School.
  • Officers Oliver Agustin, Colin Pacheco and Michael Abran for responding to and handling shoplifting calls at a Hilo business in November and December.
  • Officer May Lee for her efforts in dealing with an uncooperative suspect and taking control of the situation before it escalated into something worse.
  • Officer Zenas Paul Pacheco for assisting with traffic control for the 13th Annual Wailea Village Mochi Pounding event.

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Third Quarter 2010

Commendations from the chief:

  • Officers Jared Cabatu and Erich Jackson for being selected Hawaiʻi Police Department’s 2010 Hawaiʻi State Law Enforcement Officials Associations’ Officers of the Year for saving a 13-year-old boy from a suicide attempt.
  • Detectives Derek Morimoto and Sharlotte Bird, Sergeant Kenneth Quiocho and Officers Andres Fojas Jr., Robert Stewart, Grad Elarionoff, Benjamin Galluppi and John Kahalioumi  for being nominated for the 2010 Hawaiʻi State Law Enforcement Officials Association’s Officer of the year.
  • Officer Edwin Buyten for being named as the Hawaiʻi Police Department’s 2010 “Top Cop” for the Law Enforcement & Security Coalition of Hawaiʻi for his excellent investigative skills in helping prosecutors obtain a conviction in a drug possession case in which a man died of an overdose shortly after buying morphine from the defendant.
  • Detective Reed Mahuna, Sergeants Kenneth Quiocho and Sharlotte Bird, and Officers Erhard Autrata, Jeremy Lewis, Lloyd Ishikawa, Clarence Davies, Henry Ivy and Grad Elarionoff for being nominated as the Hawaiʻi Police Department’s 2010 “Top Cop” for the Law Enforcement & Security Coalition of Hawaiʻi.
  • Sergeant Akira Edmoundson and Officers Henry Ivy, Kristi Crivello, Kasey Ferreira and Lance Ambrose for their outstanding teamwork in investigating and solving a carjacking in Nāʻālehu in July.
  • Sergeants Rio Amon-Wilkins and Juergen Canda and Officer Ronald Paro for their cooperation and patience in the Hawaiʻi v. Kawa Salas and John K. Iopa trial and the events that preceded it.

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  • Officer Matthew Kaaihue for his keen observations while off duty at a football game, prompting a physician in the audience to make a quick assessment of the player’s condition and notify the emergency room that he had a serious injury.
  • Officer Matthew Lewis for doing an outstanding job while investigating a domestic violence case.
  • Officers William Brown, Daniel Rances, Scott Amaral, Sandor Finkey and Captain Samuel Jelsma for addressing complaints about illegal activities outside businesses in Pāhoa.
  • Officers Mike Thompson, Tyler Prokopec and Paul Mangus for bicycle patrols in Kailua-Kona.
  • Sergeant William Souther for his assistance on the issue of illegal commercial kayak vendors in Nāpoʻopoʻo.
  • Officer Bronson Kaliloa for his compassion and professionalism in assisting a Kamuela woman on more than one occasion.
  • Officers Romeo Fuiava, Wayne Kenison, Erhard Autrata and Chere Rae Lyons for treating a Hilo woman’s son with courtesy and respect when taking him to the hospital for medical treatment.
  • Officer Ellsworth Fontes Jr. for his kindness and understanding when a Pennsylvania woman left her pocketbook at the beach.
  • Detective Brian Miller for his prompt and efficient service in recovering a stolen computer.
  • Officer Jesse Kerr for helping to resolve a conflict at a public meeting.
  • Officer Edwin Buyten for his excellent investigative skills in helping prosecutors obtain a conviction in a drug possession case in which a man died of an overdose shortly after buying morphine from the defendant.
  • Officers Malia Bohol and Benjamin Nishimoto for their exemplary conduct in resolving a situation at the Hilo airport.
  • Officers Fetuutuunai Amuimuia and Blayne Matsui for their outstanding performance investigating the case of a five vehicles that were vandalized and had gas siphoned.
  • Sergeant Christopher Gali and Officer Clarence Davies for assisting the State Attorney General’s office in the investigation of a negligent injury case.
  • Officer Erhard Autrata for tracking down the owner of a camera lost by a visiting couple on their honeymoon and getting it to them at the airport before their flight left.
  • Reserve Officers Lenny Sugiyama, DuWayne Waipa, Thomas Waltjen, Lewis Wilson, Burton Yamaguchi and Paul Yoshioka for volunteering their time to support the Fire Department’s 10th annual Emergency Medical Services Week festivities.
  • Sergeants Craig Higaki, Sherry Bird, Scott Kurashige, Bradley Freitas and Officers Stan Haanio, Michael Hardie, Paul Mangus, Darren Cho, Jeremy Lewis, Robin Crusat, Denise Smith-Erickson, Greg Karonis, Mekia Rose, Tyler Prokopec, John McCarron, Brent Foster, Paul Bugado, Calvin Delaries, Jared Cabatu, Bryan Ellis, Kenneth Bugado, Robert Almeida, Nelson Acob, Jason Tominaga, Nicole Leyson, Lloyd Ishikawa, Robert Hironaka, Bobbie-Jo Sagon and John Pagay for assisting the U.S. Marshal’s Office with a Hawaiʻi Fugitive Task Force arrest operation in Kona and Hilo.
  • Officer Zenas Paul Pacheco for his personal attention when assisting the son of a Pāhoa woman.
  • Officer Colin Pacheco for assisting a UH Hilo student when his car broke down on Saddle Road.
  • Captain Mitchell Kanehailua and Officers Cory Hasegawa, Todd Pataray and Vernon Ferreira for their assistance at the Laupāhoehoe Point Project.
  • Officer Scott Amaral for his outstanding guidance and supervision during the 4th of July parade in Volcano.
  • Officer Joseph Botelho Jr. for promoting football agility and basketball clinics in Pāhoa.
  • Captain Andrew Burian, Lieutenant Albert Jason Cortez, Sergeant John Briski and Officers Frank Mohica, Jesse Kerr, John Stewart, Scott Amaral, Daniel Rances, Joseph Botelho, Nelson Acob, Nicole Leyson, Roylen Valera, William Brown, Robert Stewart, Shawn Tingle, Sandor Finkey, Vernon Ferreira, Todd Pataray, William Derr and Robert Almeida for participating in events for the Salvation Army.
  • Officer Joseph Botelho Jr. for providing coordinated events for youths.
  • Officer Dane Shibuya for his assistance with the Discovery Harbor Neighborhood Watch.
  • Officers Sandor Finkey and Scott Amaral and Reserve Officer Iris McGuire for their presence at a County Council meeting.
  • Officer Earl Haskell and Reserve Officer Randall Aurello for their support and assistance at a boxing club event.

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Second Quarter 2010

Commendations from the chief:

  • Officer Chris Correia for the excellent Field Training Officer training he conducted in January.
  • Police Radio Dispatcher Sabrina Hartz for the outstanding job she did calming a juvenile female during her calls for assistance while she was hiding from her attacker in the bushes.
  • Officer John Smith Jr. for his thorough investigative skills that led to the identity of a burglary suspect.
  • Detective Sean Smith for his outstanding investigative work and Sergeant Daniel Mlakar and Detectives Sherry Bird, Sharlotte Bird, Myra Iwamoto, Brad Feliciano, Chad Taniyama, Tyson Matsumura, Officers Edwin Buyten, Grad Elarionoff, Mekia Rose, David Matsushima, Bronson Acdal, John Balberde, Kevin Brodie, Jason Hamada, Gregg Karonis, Stephen Kishimoto, Randy Morris, Neil Shiroma and Kimmerlyn Makuakane-Jarrell for their collaborative efforts in the apprehension of an armed and dangerous suspect, which allowed the man’s 3-year-old son to be taken into protective custody for his safety and welfare.
  • Officer Dale Ku for helping to put out a fire on Kohala Mountain Road while the Fire Department was en route.
  • Officer Shawn Matsuda for getting a spare tire from his home to assist a woman who was stranded with her family along a busy highway after one of her tires blew out.

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  • Officers Adrian Ruiz and Justin Hooser for recovering a wallet the same day it was stolen from a Waikoloa woman.
  • Officer Joseph Feliciano for locating a lost wallet.
  • Sergeant Kelly Kaaumoana-Matsumoto and Traffic Safety Coordinator Dieter Blatter for speaking to a college class.
  • Lieutenant Aimee Wana, Sergeants Kelley Matsumoto and Travis Ing, Supervising Dispatcher Linda Revell and Dispatchers Michelle Shiroma, Charisse Correa, Korri Kaaua, Tracy Bolos, Annette Collins, Tara Thornhill, Jason O’Brien and Rob Taylor for surprising a 9-year-old Hilo girl with a new bike after hers was stolen.
  • Sergeant Kenneth Bugado Jr., Officer Bobbie-Jo Sagon and Officer John Masa Pagay for assisting the U.S. Marshal’s Office in apprehending a federal fugitive wanted for distributing heroin.
  • Officer Jesse Kerr for his professionalism, expertise and supportive attitude in giving counsel and recommendations to a security company that provides services to a Hilo shopping mall.
  • Officer Thomas Koyanagi for his professionalism and integrity when stopping a Canadian visitor for speeding.
  • Officer Aaron Yamanaka for the efforts he exerted to return a lost school bag.
  • Lieutenant Samuel Kawamoto and Sergeant Thomas Shopay for the support they provided at the Pacific Command Military Operations and Law Conference.
  • Officers Calvin Delaries, Robin Crusat and Darren Cho for addressing concerns of the Lokahi Makai Community.
  • Officers John Stewart and Vernon Ferreira for a presentation at the Coin Club.
  • Sergeant Kelley Matsumoto for conducting checks when a caller had a question about the time of an initial report.
  • Officer Richard Itliong for his impressionable and appropriate behavior when a man reported lost credit cards.
  • Officers Nicole Leyson, Nelson Cacho, Ryan Pagan, Blaine Morishita and Colin Pacheco for their professionalism when responding to a call for assistance from a process server.
  • Darnella Villanueva for being courteous and professional when making last-minute accommodations for a county employee who arrived to conduct training and discovered that the room hadn’t been properly reserved.
  • Detectives Wendall Carter and Brian Miller for their informative Robbery Readiness presentation to a credit union.
  • Officers John Balberde and Marlin Hopson for their professionalism when they responded to a car fire.
  • Officer Patrick Menino for doing an excellent job in providing an informative station tour.
  • Officers, Nelson Acob and Jesse Kerr, Reserves Officer Paul Yoshioka and Iris McGuire and Traffic Safety Coordinator Dieter Blattler for their work on the Shattered Dreams 2010 program.
  • Reserve Officer Joseph Hing Jr. for directing traffic during the Full Life Surf Day event.
  • Captain James O’Connor for speaking at the 2010 State of Hawaiʻi Police Commissioners Conference.
  • Officer Earl Haskell for his quick response and outstanding performance when a Puna woman’s burglar alarm sounded.
  • Officer Vernon Ferreira for his role in a public-private cleanup initiative along the Puainako Extension over the past year.
  • Systems Analyst Sandy Tokeshi for her assistance in getting the mobile data terminals ready for deployment.
  • Officer Cory Hasegawa for his contributions and outstanding service to the Honoka‘a  Community.
  • Dispatchers Nashly Leslie Derego and Wanda Pua-Kaipo and Officers Kimmerlyn Makuakane-Jarrell, Brandon Mansur, Gavin Kagimoto, Donovan Kohara and Keith Nacis for their professionalism and efficiency when a Hilo man and his family were rear-ended by a drunk driver.
  • Officers Azia Maze, Kimmerlyn Makuakane-Jarrell, Keith Nacis and Benjamin Nishimoto for helping to locate a missing woman with dementia.
  • Captain James Sanborn and Officers Brad Feliciano, Apollo Kepo‘o and John Gandolf for helping a family with problems they encountered with a neighbor over a four-year period.

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First Quarter 2010

  • Commendations from the chief:
  • Firearms Clerk Arlene Young for promptly assisting an Oahu man with his brother’s firearms.
  • Detective Lorenzo Artienda for responding to a shooting incident on his day off.
  • Officer Benjamin Galluppi for his outstanding work productivity during the months of January and February.

Letters of appreciation from the public:

  • Officer Louie Ondo Jr. for defusing a tense and critical situation in Pepeʻekeo.
  • Officers Gavin Kagimoto, Nicole Leyson, Brian Bence and Ryan Domingo for their referrals to VASH.
  • Detective James Gusman and Lieutenant Albert Jason Cortez for their assistance with a case involving a woman who allegedly absconded with her children to Hawaiʻi.
  • Dispatcher Nashly Leslie-Derego for going beyond her duties to find assistance for a UHH student and her roommate whose car had a dead battery.
  • Officers Patrick Menino, Chris Correia and Michael Riviera for their assistance in searching for a police commissioner’s keys at a recruit class recognition ceremony.
  • Officer Gregory Ikeda for his testimony at the death penalty trial for defendants in a California murder case.
  • Sergeant Mark Farias for his professionalism and kind, caring and honest attitude.
  • Officers Darren Cho and Calvin Delaries for meeting with children at a Kona preschool.
  • Officer Nalani Freitas for giving a presentation to the Hui Laulima.
  • Officers Edmundo Palacol and Van Reyes for their assistance and professionalism when a Honolulu couple’s car crashed.
  • Officer Rodolfo Johnson for being kind, courteous and professional while issuing a speeding citation to a Hilo man.
  • Officer John Smith Jr. and Dispatcher Keven Lee for their contributions to State v. Kevin Metcalfe.
  • Officer Kenneth Ishii for treating a Mountain View woman with respect and dignity.
  • Captain Andrew Burian, Officers Dane Shibuya, Darren Cho and Robin Crusat and Reserve Officer Peter Alu for providing Keiki ID sessions for the students of Pāhala Elementary School.
  • Captain Steven Guillermo, Lieutenant Albert Jason Cortez, Officers Scott Amaral, Sandor Finkey, Todd Pataray, Daniel Rances, Shawn Tingle, John Stewart, Robert Almeida, Vernon Ferreira, William Derr, Nelson Acob, and Reserve Officers Michael Leite, Bruce Heidenfeldt, Belinda Kahiwa and Randall Aurello for their assistance and support at the Kea‘au Community Christmas Parade.
  • Officer Louie Ondo for assisting firefighters with an uncooperative patient who needed medical attention.
  • Officer Jerome Manuel for his sympathetic attitude and calm and friendly manner when a California man reported an incident at a golf course.
  • Officers Edwin Buyten and Tyler Prokopec for their professional and credible testimony in USA. v. Hinsey.
  • Officers Destiny Hoopii, Gregg Karonis and Reserve Officer Peter Alu for being kind and compassionate when responding to a Honaunau woman’s request for advice on a matter involving the bullying of her 6-year-old daughter.
  • Officer James Steffen and Sergeant Darrell Huston for assisting a Puna man in finding his missing daughter.
  • Captain Steven Guillermo and Officers Sandor Finkey and Scott Amaral for assisting a community group in efforts to improve and clean up a lot in Hawaiian Beaches.
  • Officers Earl Haskell, Belinda Kahiwa and Randall Aurello for assisting with a Yeshua Boxing Club event on March 13.
  • Officers John Stewart, Vernon Ferreira, Jesse Kerr, William Derr, Todd Pataray, Frank Mohica and Robert Almeida for their support of the Hawaiʻi Drug-Free Awareness Month event, “Readiness for Change: No Meth Around.”
  • Officer Christopher Kapua-Allison for providing assistance and recommendations to people who described themselves as “four white haired tourists” from Minnesota.

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