Police Department Recognizes 22 New Officers

Members of the Hawaii Police Department’s 81^st Recruit Class were recognized Friday at ceremonies at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel.

The 22 graduates recently completed six months of intensive training. They will next undergo four months of on-the-job field training with veteran officers before being qualified to work alone.

John G. Kari, the class president, noted that the 30 individuals who started training have melded into a cohesive unit of 22 rookie officers.

Mayor Billy Kenoi congratulated the recruits for “having the courage to dream and the determination to make those dreams come true.”

He told them that in addition to their commitment to their job, they should take care of themselves and appreciate their families.

“The most important thing is not the job, it’s your family,” Kenoi said. “Always go home and hug them and tell them, ‘Thank you.’”

County Council Chairman J Yoshimoto told the recruits that they had the gratitude and appreciation of council members.

Giving the keynote address was Christian Kimo Alameda, statewide director of the Department of Health’s Office of Health Equity, which provides “aloha training” to members of the police department.

Alamedastressed the importance of making positive choices.

“I wish you guys the best,” he said. “It’s a tough world out there.”

Recruits receiving special recognition included Luke W. Sitts, who excelled in academic training; Daniel K. Tam, tops in firearms training; and class Vice President Roberto J. Segobia for physical fitness training.

The other members of the 81st Recruit Class are: Ewoud A. Bezemer, Briana M. Boyce, Melissa K. D’Angelo, Chad E. Fontes, Len K. Hamakado, Shane K. Hanley, Jeremiah J. Hull, Gibson G. K. Kahele, Bradley M. Llanes, Bryson S. Miyose, Alexis L. Molina, Chandler B. Nacino, Jacob M. Obermiller, David D. Poʻohina, Duane J. Rapoza Jr., James M. Rinkor, Samuel P. Sagario and Paul J. Wright III.

The class motto was “Pūpūkahi I Holomua,” which means “Unite to Move Forward.”