2024-06-21 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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HAWAI`I POLICE COMMISSION REGULAR SESSION MINUTES JUNE 21, 2024 COUNTY BUILDING, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, SUITE 1401 25 AUPUNI ST., HILO, HI CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL Chair Robinson called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. Present: Rick Robinson, Chair John Bertsch, Vice Chair Arthur Buckman, Commissioner Travis Ing, Commissioner Eileen Lacerte, Commissioner Rod Quartararo, Commissioner Anthony Sur, Commissioner Jacob Tavares, Commissioner A quorum was present. Also present: Benjamin Moszkowicz, Police Chief Reed Mahuna, Acting Deputy Chief Chad Basque, Assistant Chief Andrew Burian, Assistant Chief Scott Amaral, Major Tuck Loy Aurelio, Captain Dakota Frenz, Deputy Corporation Counsel Charisse Correa, Secretary STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS (Summarized) • Roger Christie testified before the commission regarding the approval of the meeting minutes. He disagreed with the commission's ruling on his complaint from the previous meeting, claiming there is ample evidence supporting his case. He presented additional evidence during this session, distributed as handouts. Mr. Christie believes the Hawai'i Police Department owes a sincere apology to the community for perpetuating misinformation about cannabis. He argued that cannabis has beneficial uses, citing examples from other states where legalization has not led to increased problems. Mr. Christie emphasized the potential benefits of legalizing cannabis in Hawai'i, highlighting its medical potential. He feels the gold standard of good government is citizen involvement and strict oversight. He expressed disappointment with the commission's decision and filed a similar petition with the Board of Ethics. Despite his criticism, Mr. Christie conveyed respect for the police chief and apologized for his frank remarks. Commissioner Bertsch arrived at 9:08 a.m.