HAWAII POLICE DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF
LAWRENCE K. MAHUNA
PHONE: 961-2244
APRIL 20, 2006

MEDIA RELEASE

The public will have a chance to meet Tucker the bloodhound during Police Week festivities planned for Monday, May 15, in Hilo and Wednesday, May 17, in Kona.

Tucker is just one of many attractions and activities on the agenda for the nationally recognized Police Week, which honors officers who have died or been disabled in the line of duty.

The events begin at 10 a.m. on May 15 with a formal program at the Hilo police station to pay tribute to fallen officers from the Hawaii Police Department.

After the formal ceremony, police will present demonstrations and displays lasting until 3 p.m. During that time:

• Tucker will be on display and canines from the vice section will demonstrate how they signal officers when they detect drugs in a car.

• Traffic Enforcement Officers will demonstrate radar units and help members of the public install child safety seats in their cars.

• The department’s Special Response Team will demonstrate how its officers make a felony stop on a vehicle.

• Juvenile Aid Section officers will offer Keiki ID kits.

The public also can get an up-close look at the Police Department’s special vehicles, including the Mobile Command Van, which is designed for use during major events, such as natural disasters.

A similar celebration will be offered for West Hawaii residents on Wednesday, May 17, at the old Kona Airport gym.

During the same week, police will make other presentations at locations in the community. Those include presentations on how to protect against ID theft and how to reduce the risk of burglary.

In 1962 President John F. Kennedy proclaimed every May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week it falls in as Police Week.