The Kona Crime Prevention Committee recognized Detective Sean Smith as "Officer of the Month" for July in a luncheon ceremony Wednesday (July 7) at King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel.

Smith was honored for an investigation that led to the arrest of a man wanted for crimes in East and West Hawai’i, including the severing of a man’s finger, the kidnapping of a woman at gunpoint and the beating of a man during an auto theft. As a result of Smith’s persistence, the suspect was charged with eight felonies and two misdemeanors. Police also recovered three stolen vehicles and property stolen in two burglaries.

"Detective Smith’s actions have resulted in the apprehension and removal of a violent and dangerous person from our community, ending his ability to terrorize others and continue his crime spree," said Lieutenant Gerald Wike, who nominated Smith for the award.

As "Officer of the Month," Smith is eligible to become "Officer of the Year."

The Kona Crime Prevention Committee is an organization that encourages community involvement in aiding and supporting police in West Hawai’i.