2024-09-20 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawai'i Police Commission Regular Session Minutes September 20, 2024 Page 2 • Traffic Report: Major Shopay reported there were 70 traffic crashes this fiscal year, compared to 64 last year. Traffic fatalities at one, compared to zero the previous year. DUI arrests are at 83 compared to 74. In July 2024, there were 83 DUI arrests, and 83 in June. There were 5,647 citations issued, including 3,916 for moving/regulatory violations, 339 for seat belt violations, 37 for child restraint violations, and 1,087 for speeding. Chair Robinson wanted to know if they could tell the difference between residents and visitors in the numbers. Major Shopay replied that they don't keep track of that information. Commissioner Lacerte mentioned that the driver's license information is entered when written reports indicate whether it's a local or out-of-state license. Once they get an Al system in place, they'll have easy access to this data, providing valuable insights and it would be interesting to see those statistics. Commissioner Quartararo asked for clarification on the difference between moving and regulatory violations. Major Shopay explained that moving violations include traffic lane violations or running stop signs, while regulatory violations include expired vehicle taxes, tinted windows, or faulty lights. Chair Robinson mentioned that he frequently talks on his cell phone and asked whether using a hands-free device while driving counts as cell phone use. Major Shopay clarified that hands-free use is not a violation, but holding or manipulating the phone is considered a distraction and is a violation. Bluetooth devices are acceptable. Commissioner Quartararo inquired about the legality of wearing earphones while driving. Major Shopay confirmed that it is prohibited because it prevents drivers from hearing emergency or other vehicles, and using earphones while driving is an enforceable offense. Commissioner Tavares noted that it might be a timing issue, but pointed out that thefts in Area I for August 2024 accounted for about 51% of the total thefts for the fiscal year up to that point. He asked if there was a specific reason for such a high concentration of thefts in August or if it was more a matter of reporting timing. Major Amaral responded that it's likely a mix of both. There has been an increase in store thefts in both Area I and Area II, with many of the cases being shoplifting. They've been working with community policing officers and stores to address the problem, as multiple factors are contributing to the rise. Further discussion took place on topics including self-driving vehicles like Teslas, seatbelt restraints, the dangers of riding in the back of a truck, and the use of emergency red and blue lights, as well as white and amber lights for safety and precautionary purposes.