Big Island woman sworn in as new deputy director for state program

Sanna Muñoz of the Big Island was sworn in as the new deputy director of the Rehabilitation Services and Program Division of the new Hawai‘i Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Previously known as the Public Safety Department, the Hawai‘i Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation was re-established in 2022 through House Bill 2171, transferring law enforcement functions to the new Department of Law Enforcement effective New Year’s Day.

“The motto for our department is ‘He Au Hou,’ which means ‘a new era,'” said Tommy Johnson, director of the new department, who previously served as director of the Public Safety Department after being appointed by Governor Josh Green and confirmed by the Senate. “We’re able to focus our full attention, resources, and energy on rehabilitation and restoration to support those in our custody and care. We envisioned this over two years ago and it’s exciting to see this coming to fruition. We may not see changes occur overnight. We know there is always room for improvement, but I’m confident we’re headed in the right direction.”

Muñoz served as Deputy Director of Corrections for the Department of Public Safety since August 2023. She said she was grateful to Gov. Josh Green and Johnson for the opportunity to serve in her new role.

“It has been such a privilege to work with so many amazing and passionate staff, both uniformed and non-uniformed, who remain committed to their duty as public servants and the mission of our department,” Muñoz said. “I am fortunate to be part of our transition from the Department of Public Safety.”

Before her position with the Public Safety Department, Muñoz worked as a domestic violence unit probation supervisor for the Hawai‘i State Judiciary Adult Client Services Branch in the 3rd Circuit for the East Hawai’i section. She also served on several committees and groups, including the Family Violence Interagency Committee and Hawai‘i Domestic Abuse Response Team.

Muñoz had served more than 26 years with the judiciary in various roles that included supervisory, programming and community outreach positions before she joined the state department.

Johnson said the transition of Muñoz to the Corrections Rehabilitation Services and Programs Division will usher in a new era focusing on the quality and depth of the department’s programs to help facilitate better outcomes for those in state custody and care.

“In her new role, Deputy Director Muñoz strengthens the leadership team as we address the many challenges ahead,” he said.

Muñoz said: “Even though the department has a solid foundation of programs and services, there is a lot of work ahead to increase and improve those efforts, incorporate more culturally appropriate programs, and increase the number of evidence-based programs.

“We hope to work more closely with our offenders and our community partners to not only reduce recidivism but return people into the community with a better chance at success, so both individuals and our communities can thrive.”

Muñoz earned an Associate of Science Degree in Administration of Justice from Hawai‘i Community College, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social and Criminal Justice from Iowa Ashford University and a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Missouri.