Big Island police hold ceremony for newly promoted personnel, merit recipients

Police Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz has promoted 15 individuals within the Hawai‘i Police Department: one to the rank of Captain, one to the rank of Lieutenant, nine to Police Officer III, one each to Criminalist III, Information Systems Analyst VI, Information Systems Analyst V, and Senior Police Records Clerk. The promotions are effective as of Nov. 1.

The newly promoted include:

• Captain Todd Pataray
• Lieutenant Frank Mohica
• Police Officer III Michael Collings
• Police Officer III Laurence Davis
• Police Officer III Kuilee Dela Cruz
• Police Officer III Benhielden Del Toro
• Police Officer III Lisa Ebesugawa
• Police Officer III Jeremiah Hull
• Police Officer III Roland Kuamoo
• Police Officer III Ansel Robinson
• Police Officer III Bryan Young
• Criminalist III Haylee Roush
• Information Systems Analyst VI Michelle Kratel
• Information Systems Analyst V Ted Shaneyfelt Sr.
• Police Records Clerk Kerrine Akiona

A recognition ceremony to honor the newly promoted department personnel, two Certificate of Merit recipients, and a Certificate of Appreciation was held in Kona on Nov. 2. The recognition ceremony was open to the families of department personnel. Initiated by Chief Moszkowicz, this is the first time a recognition ceremony has been held in Kona, with a previous ceremony held in Hilo in May.

“I am proud of all the department members who have taken the next step in their careers,” said Chief Moszkowicz. “I am also excited that we now have a public forum to recognize their accomplishments and give their families a chance to express their pride and appreciation.”

Two Certificate of Merit recipients, Officer Adam Hanes and a civilian, 17-year-old Milo Rossman, were recognized as well. Certificates of Merit are relatively rare within the department and are awarded to sworn personnel and civilian personnel who have distinguished themselves by exceptional performance of duties or periods of outstanding and faithful service, acts, or achievements.

Kona patrol officer Adam Hanes helped save a man’s life while on vacation in Bethesda, Maryland. On June 28, 2023, he was at a conference when the 68-year-old male speaker collapsed. Officer Hanes immediately sprang into action and began chest compressions, performing CPR until medics arrived and transported the victim to the hospital. Montgomery County Maryland police credit Officer Hanes with saving the man’s life.

On July 17, 2023, 17-year-old Milo Rossman provided aid to the victim of an exceptionally violent crime in west Hawai‘i. Hearing a commotion outside his home, he left the safety of his house to investigate. In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, Rossman demonstrated exceptional bravery and resourcefulness without regard for his own well-being. Recognizing that the victim was suffering from massive blood loss, Rossman intervened, took charge of the situation, and transported the victim to the hospital before first responders arrived on scene. Rossman’s compassion and quick-thinking not only saved a life that evening, but also showcased the true spirit of community.

A Certificate of Appreciation was also awarded to Reserve Officer Bruce Heidenfeldt for his 22 years of dedicated service with the Hawai’i Police Department.