The Kona Crime Prevention Committee recognized Officer Jared Cabatu as "Officer of the Month" for March in a luncheon ceremony Wednesday (April 7) at Paddlers Restaurant at King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel.

Cabatu was honored for pursuing and arresting a man who had fled after driving recklessly, speeding and causing an accident in Kainaliu on February 11. The driver was charged with reckless endangering, reckless driving, resisting an order to stop, excessive speeding, passing in a no-passing zone, driving with a suspended license, no motor vehicle no-fault insurance, accidents involving damage to a vehicle and duty to render information.

It was later learned that the driver also had numerous incidents involving firearms violations, assaults and a shooting on his property.

"Officer Cabatu’s action potentially saved lives and protected property," said Lieutenant Melvin Yamamoto, who nominated Cabatu for the award. "His actions, skills and decision making were that of a veteran officer, although he has only been a patrol officer for six months.

As "Officer of the Month," Cabatu 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.