2024-11-15 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawai'i Police Commission Regular Session Minutes November 15, 2024 Page 3 spaces, decisions about their use are beyond the Police Department's jurisdiction. He also mentioned that the Hilo initiative was a test with some challenges. Vice Chair Bertsch inquired about the civil liberties of homeless individuals and the protection of their belongings. Major Shopay confirmed that their property is safeguarded, with a storage period allowing individuals to recover their items. He emphasized that the goal of community policing officers is to assist individuals in finding long-term housing rather than enforcing harsh measures. Officers provide education on available opportunities, work toward family reunifications, and give advance notice before area cleanups. Commissioner Quartararo asked for clarification on the term "cleanup," inquiring if it referred to removing people or drug residue. Major Shopay explained that the cleanup involves the entire facility. While people are allowed in the park during park hours, the cleanup occurs when the park is closed, during which individuals are asked to leave or are removed, along with their belongings. Commissioner Quartararo also raised concerns about drug-related issues, particularly the dangers of fentanyl. Major Shopay encouraged the public to report drug use to the police so it can be addressed appropriately. Vice Chair Bertsch pointed out that addressing these issues often requires a multi- agency approach, and it's not typically within the Police Department's purview to conduct drug screenings of the park unless there's visible evidence. Chair Robinson explained that the rise in homelessness began in the late 70s and early 80s when the ACLU filed a national lawsuit. The lawsuit led to the deinstitutionalization of people with mental illnesses, many of whom were placed in institutions involuntarily, but for their benefit. Chair Robinson believes the ACLU's actions played a significant role in the current homeless situation. • Personnel Report: Assistant Chief Burian reported that as of October 31, 2024, there are 70 sworn police vacancies in the field, minus 13 from the 100t" recruit class, and 15 from the 101St recruit class, and they have 50 actual sworn positions unfilled. Currently, for police communication officers, they have 27 filled and 11 vacant. All five supervising police communication officer positions are fully staffed. Overall, the department has filled 435 of 484 sworn positions (90%) and 124 of 158 civilian positions (78%). AC Burian provided an update on the progress of the current and upcoming recruit classes, along with the ongoing efforts to recruit for Police Officer I positions. The discussion continued regarding PO 1, PO 11, temporary assignments, and specialized positions such as PO III roles, including field training officers, the crime reduction unit, and community police officers. Vice Chair Bertsch highlighted the corporal program as an excellent way to incentivize officers and provide a logical