Seven new recruits join Hawai‘i Police Department

For years, Hawai‘i Island police has struggled with bringing on new recruits to the department. In June, 78 sworn vacancies were reported to the county’s police commission.

But on July 14, the department celebrated as it held its 97th Police Recruit Class Recognition Ceremony that brought on seven new recruits after six months of training.

Class Officers include Officer Jesse Robert, Class President, and Officer Marvin Jay Miguel, Vice President.

Other members of the class are Tinery Acdal, Ashton Gomes, Kilika Respicio, Dayne Shibuya Jr., and Elika Smith.

The 97th Police Recruit Class began their training on Jan. 17. The newly graduated officers will now undergo four months of on-the-job field training with veteran police officers before they are qualified to work alone.

During the ceremony, held at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel in Hilo, special recognition was given to those recruit officers who achieved outstanding performance during the course of academic training.

The Academic Award was awarded to Officer Robert who attained and upheld the highest grade point average on weekly and certification examinations. Officer Shibuya Jr. was presented with the Firearms Award for his interest and proficiency in the use of firearms and for attaining the highest rating in firearms training.

Recipients of the academic and firearms awards will have their names engraved on a perpetual plaque, which is displayed in the department’s training room.

Officer Smith was recognized with the Physical Fitness Award for excelling and maintaining his level of physical conditioning. Officer Acdal was recognized with the Most Outstanding Recruit Award.