Hawaiʻi Police Department to test, evaluate new external ballistic vest uniform

Hawaiʻi Police Department in May will embark on a 30-day operational test and evaluation of a new external ballistic vest uniform for patrol officers.

Ten selected officers will wear the new vest as part of their regular duty uniform from May 1-31. The test and evaluation could also be extended an additional 30 days if more feedback is needed.

The test and evaluation will help the department assess the new uniform’s comfort, mobility, durability and overall performance in Hawaiʻi’s climate and working conditions.

“This evaluation is part of Chief [Reed] Mahuna’s ongoing commitment to provide our officers with the best possible equipment to enhance both their safety and effectiveness while serving the public,” said test and evaluation coordinator Hawaiʻi Police Department Administrative Services Division Capt. Levon Stevens in announcing the upcoming uniform evaluation.

Hawaiʻi Police Department encourages feedback from members of the public who observe officers wearing the new external vest uniform during the test period.

Comments regarding the appearance, professionalism or any other impressions are appreciated.

Send all feedback and observations via email to Stevens at levon.stevens@hawaiipolice.gov.