2026-01-30 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes January 30, 2026 Page 3 that Interim Chief Mahuna is the best choice for the next Chief of Police, citing his desire and ability to do the job, his established ties and vested interest in the community, and his leadership qualities of compassion, accountability, empathy, and fairness, and he urged the Commission to make the appointment official. Chad Basque, recent retiree from the Hawaii County Police Department with over 36 years of service, including 17 years in executive management and three years as Assistant Chief in West Hawaii, acknowledged the difficulty of the Commission's decision and the number of qualified candidates. He stated that the department needs a leader who will take full ownership, responsibility, and accountability, and who is both born on the island and raised in the department. He emphasized the importance of a chief who has strong relationships with sworn and civilian staff and is trusted by the community, county, state, and federal partners. He described effective leadership as requiring strong communication, openness to input, adherence to policies and ethical standards, fairness, consistency, and leading by example on and off duty. Based on his experience working with Interim Chief Reed Mahuna as a peer, supervisor, and later as his subordinate, Basque stated that Mahuna embodies these qualities and strongly recommended that he be selected as the next Chief of Police. Captain Rio Amon-Wilkins, Hawaii Police Department, Area I Criminal Investigation Division, Hilo (with the department since 1999), noted that he has served under six police chiefs and appreciates the Commission's work and the significance of this selection for both the department and the community. He expressed support for Interim Chief Reed Mahuna, recounting their long history working together as patrol officers and detectives in East and West Hawaii, and later with Mahuna as his direct supervisor. He identified Mahuna's honesty and integrity as key strengths, stating that Mahuna consistently holds himself to high ethical standards and does what is right even when it is not easy or popular. He also highlighted Mahuna's ability to listen, gather facts, and make sound, informed decisions rather than acting on emotion. Captain Amon-Wilkins noted that the abrupt departure of the previous chief created uncertainty within the department and that officers deserve a leader who knows the department and community, understands the challenges, and will lead with vision and accountability. He stated that, based on experience, character, and suitability, Interim Chief Mahuna is the best candidate to lead the department forward. Sam Guckenheimer thanked the Commission and expressed gratitude for the process. He stated that he attended the previous day's meeting and was impressed by the eight candidates and by the quality of the interview process. He thanked all of the applicants for their love of the island and commitment to the community. He acknowledged that only one candidate will become chief but encouraged all of them to remain involved with the county and the community, stating that each candidate has something to offer.