Hawai‘i Island police officer pleads no contest in evidence tampering case

A Hawai‘i Island police officer charged with tampering with physical evidence entered a no contest plea during a court hearing on Tuesday.

The State of Hawai‘i Attorney General filed a felony charging complaint in 3rd Circuit Court in January against Officer Blane Kenolio, along with Officer Noah Serrao, for a variety of charges, including perjury and evidence tampering stemming from unconstitutional searches of an arrestee’s belongings in May 2023.

On Wednesday, Kenolio, a six-year member of the police department, entered his no contest plea before Judge Henry Nakamoto. During the hearing, the officer asked the court to grant a deferred acceptance.

Tampering with Physical Evidence is a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for May 28.

Both officers have remained in patrol as their court proceedings continue.

Hawai‘i Island Police Chief Reed Mahuna said Kenolio will remain with the force.

“There is no further action I can take, as he was disciplined in June and July of 2023 for this misconduct,” Mahuna stated in an email on Wednesday to Big Island Now.

The charge stemmed from Kenolio’s unconstitutional search of an arrestee’s belongings inside the Hilo Police Station. According to a news release from the Department of the Attorney General, Kenolio searched a closed container found inside the arrestee’s handbag without a warrant.

“He then sprayed an alcohol solution on the outside of the closed container and thoroughly wiped it down to remove trace evidence of his search,” the release stated.

Attorney General Anne Lopez said Kenolio’s no contest plea underscores the importance of accountability and adherence to constitutional protections.

“The rule of law applies equally to everyone,” Lopez stated, adding that her department remains committed to maintaining public trust in the justice system.

“Professionalism, integrity, and respect for constitutional protections are the cornerstones of policing,” Mahuna said. “We value the collaborative and professional manner in which this matter was investigated and remain committed to serving our community with transparency, accountability, and professionalism.”

Serrao, a six-year member assigned to Hilo Patrol, is charged with perjury, false swearing in official matters, and tampering with a Government Record.

“They, like all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law,” a Hawaiʻi Police Department news release stated in January.