7 graduate as part of Hawaiʻi Police Department’s 96th recruit class

The Hawaiʻi Police Department on Friday honored the graduates of the 96th police recruit class during an invite-only ceremony at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. Police personnel, guest speakers and family members of the recruits were in attendance to congratulate the graduates.

The 96th recruit class began training July 1. The recruits came from a variety of backgrounds and previous career paths, and after six months of intensive training, seven graduated. The newly graduated officers will now undergo four months of on-the-job field training with veteran police officers before being qualified to work alone.

Kimberly Palea-Springer served as the 96th recruit class president. Class vice president was Hunter Rapoza. Other members of the class are Zachary Hale, Patrick Manila, Israel Mata, Tammy Messina and Andrew Padilla.

Special honors also were given to recruit officers who achieved outstanding performance during their academic training:

• Rapoza received the Physical Fitness Award for excelling and maintaining his level of physical conditioning.
• The Academic Award was given to Palea-Springer, who attained and upheld the highest grade-point average on weekly and certification examinations.
• Mata was presented with the Firearms Award for his interest and proficiency in the use of firearms and for attaining the highest rating in firearms training.

As the winners of the Academic and Firearms awards, Palea-Springer and Mata will have their names engraved on a perpetual plaque displayed in the department’s training room.