Hawai‘i Island police lieutenant takes new role as captain in Ka‘ū

A new Hawai‘i Island police captain was assigned to the Ka‘ū District.

Pernell Hanoa, a 20-year veteran of the department, was recently promoted after serving in Ka‘ū as a lieutenant. Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna said Hanoa brings a deep understanding of the area’s geography, challenges and people.

“His experience working this vast district over many years, combined with his steady leadership and practical approach to problem-solving, make him exceptionally well-suited to lead Kaʻū moving forward,” Mahuna stated in a news release.

Hanoa began his law enforcement career with Kona Patrol before transferring to the Kaʻū District, where he served as both a patrol officer and sergeant. He later worked as a detective with the Area II Criminal Investigation Section before being promoted to lieutenant in 2021 and assigned to the Area II Juvenile Aid Section.

Since 2022, Hanoa has served as the Kaʻū Patrol lieutenant and has fulfilled the role of acting captain on multiple occasions.

“I have full confidence in his ability to support both our officers and the communities they serve,” Mahuna said.