Media Release

The Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawai’i recognized Officer Robert Pule on Thursday (July 22) as “Officer of the Month” for July.

Pule, a South Hilo patrol officer, was honored for displaying courage while arresting an armed suspect.

Early in the morning of May 30, police dispatchers received a call reporting that a man had entered a woman’s vehicle in front of a bar on Banyan Drive and pointed a handgun at her head. Pule arrived at the scene four minutes later and found the armed suspect hiding behind a large pine tree by the water’s edge. Officer Pule drew his weapon and advanced on the suspect, walking about 50 yards without cover before the suspect tossed his loaded semi-automatic handgun into the ocean.

Investigation revealed that the suspect had threatened two other victims who had come to the aid of the woman. He was charged with eight felonies and two misdemeanors.

Sergeant Allan Watanabe, who nominated Pule for the award, noted that the officer is a senior member of his watch and has also been the football coach at Waiākea High School for the past 10 years. “Officer Pule’s quick response to the scene to hunt for an armed suspect demonstrated his commitment to his profession and community,” Watanabe said. “Due to Officer Pule’s dogged determination and bravery, a dangerous, gun-toting criminal was taken off our streets.”

As “Officer of the Month,” Pule is eligible for “Officer of the Year.”

The East Hawaii “Officer of the Month” award is a project of the Aloha Exchange Club of Hilo.