Patrol officer honored, promoted after showcasing unwavering dedication to Kaʻū

Kaʻū patrol officer Paul Wright III will celebrate Police Week as the first Kaʻū District “Officer of the Quarter.”

According to Detective Donovan Kohara, Officer Wright was nominated for the Kaʻū District’s first “Officer of the Quarter” award due to his commitment to Kaʻū and his tenacity in locating wanted individuals.

Sergeant Eric Ontiveros highlighted Officer Wright’s recent efforts, resulting in the apprehension of a male fugitive who had been eluding police for six years.

“He is a dependable and extremely capable officer,” said Acting Captain Pernell Hanoa. “In my 20 years of law enforcement, I have not seen many officers as dedicated and committed to serving their community as Officer Wright. He shows up to work each day with a goal and will do his utmost to accomplish what he has set out to do.”

Wright, an 11-year law enforcement veteran, has served the Kaʻū community since May 2022. Though currently residing in the Hilo area, his family is from Kaʻū.

In his speech at the ceremony, Police Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz congratulated Officer Wright on his accomplishment and touched upon Officer Wright’s upcoming promotion.

Effective Friday, May 16, Officer Wright will transfer to the police department’s Training Section in Hilo, where he will be responsible for training and guiding future police recruits.