Exemplifying the essence of community policing: Sluss receives Hāweo Award

Dwayne Sluss is a natural “people person.” He thrives on forming and strengthening relationships.

So in 2020, when the 14-year veteran officer with Hawai‘i Police Department became a member of Kona Community Policing Section in West Hawai‘i, it was as if it was a match made once in a lifetime.

Sluss has since gone above and beyond the call of duty as a community policing officer, organizing and sustaining numerous successful outreach programs with an approach grounded in proactive community engagement.

Hawai‘i County Council honored his outstanding committment to community policing and the meaningful partnerships he’s fostered by naming him the July 2023 recipient of the Hāweo Award.

Sluss received the award during a presentation as part of the council’s regular session meeting July 23 in Kona.

“Hāweo” has many meanings in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, including “to put in a place of honor,” “to glow” or “to be radiant.”

The Hāweo Award was established in 2021 by Hawaiʻi County Council, Hawaiʻi Fire Department and Hawaiʻi Police Department to celebrate police and fire department employees who go beyond the call of duty. It is presented monthly by the County Council.

Sluss has distinguished himself since becoming a member of Kona Community Police through proactive outreach and innovative problem-solving aimed at improving the well-being of the communities he serves.

Perhaps among the most notable of his accomplishmeents is creating, planning and coordinating community events such as the annual Fill-a-Cruiser food drive and Cocoa with a Cop.

These events bring community members together; furthermore, they foster positive relationships between the public and law enforcement. They’ve been successfull within the community as well.

“His genuine ability to connect with others makes him a valued resource within the Kona Community Policing Section, particularly when coordinating with external agencies and community partners,” Hawai‘i Police Department wrote in an announcement about Sluss being honored. “His willingness to take the lead in collaborative efforts exemplifies the essence of community policing — fostering trust, communication and cooperation between law enforcement and the public.”

Fill-a-Cruiser has collected more than 11,300 pounds of food and nearly $19,000 in monetary donations for The Food Basket, Hawai‘i Island’s food bank, since it was established in 2021.

Sluss also plays a key role in the continued success of flagship Hawai‘i Police Department programs such as Coffee With a Cop and Shop With a Cop, ensuring they maintain their strong community impact year-after-year.

“Hawai‘i Police Department congratulates Officer Sluss for his tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to community engagement,” the department said in its announcement.

You can watch the July 23 presentation of the Hāweo Award online.