HPD recruits graduate
The Hawaii Police Department’s 92nd Police Recruit Class Recognition Ceremony was held Thursday morning at the Public Safety Building in Hilo. In accordance with current social distancing restrictions, this was a private ceremony limited to only police personnel and guest speakers. Friends, family, and members of the public were able to view the ceremony live by visiting the Hawaii Police Department’s Facebook page.
Class Officers included Officer Joshua “Kaipo” Stender (Class President), Officer Rickielee “Pauahi” Kamakau (Vice President), and Officer Laura Torres (Treasurer).
Other members of the class are Krimsen Abilla, Charles Caldwell-Kaai, Dylan Chaves, Cody Correia, Craig Derasin, Joseph DiNapoli, Malik Durden, Bailey Langsner, Andrew Love Jr., Keanu Lumwon, Devon Manuel, Greg Matias, Axtan Mattos, Dustin Medeiros, Victoria Rios, Manuel Soares IV, Dayn Suguitan, and Ekahi Travaso.
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 Joseph DiNapoli who attained and upheld the highest GPA on weekly and certification examinations. Officer Greg Matias 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 Police Department’s Training Room.
Officer Rickielee “Pauahi” Kamakau was recognized with the Physical Fitness Award for excelling and maintaining her level of physical conditioning. Officer Joshua “Kaipo” Stender received the Overall Outstanding Recruit Award for his motivational and leadership qualities while serving as the Class President.
Our 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.