2026-01-30 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes January 30, 2026 Page 5 heightened scrutiny of law enforcement. She thanked the Commission and the candidates for their work and endorsed Interim Chief Mahuna as the permanent Chief of Police. Lincoln Ashida, former Hawaii County Prosecuting Attorney and former Corporation Counsel to the Police Department and Police Commission, testified in support of Interim Chief Mahuna. He said his purpose was to provide insight beyond what is available in applications, letters, or interviews. Mr. Ashida recalled first knowing Mahuna casually when Mahuna was a patrol officer and later attending Mahuna's wedding at the invitation of his dad, then Police Chief Lawrence Mahuna, whom Mr. Ashida represented as Corporation Counsel. He shared a personal anecdote about observing Reed Mahuna's care and attentiveness toward his mother at the wedding, which left a lasting impression of his character and respect for family. He stated that, over time, they have become closer and that he has seen Mahuna's commitment to education and professional development, including partnering with the University of Hawaii to allow officers to pursue bachelor's degrees through flexible scheduling. Mr. Ashida characterized Mahuna as a "lifelong student" who is invested in the growth of his officers. Drawing on his experience representing the Police Commission, he commended the Commission for its fairness in the process and urged it now to do the right thing by selecting Interim Chief Mahuna, stating that not only does Mahuna deserve to be Chief, but the community deserves him as Chief. Chair Yamada asked if anyone else wished to testify; there were none. Chair Yamada then entertained a motion to enter into a closed executive session pursuant to HRS §§ 92-4 and 92-5(a)(4) to consult with the Board's attorney regarding the Board's powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities related to the Police Chief selection process. Commissioner Lacerte so moved, Vice Chair Botelho seconded, and the motion carried. Executive session was convened at 9.43 a.m. Commissioner Tavares moved to return to open session, seconded by Vice Chair Botelho. With no discussion, the motion carried unanimously, and open session reconvened at 10.25 a.m. EXECUTIVE SESSION SUMMARY Chair Yamada stated that, for full transparency, the Commission discussed remaining legal issues regarding the selection process. He further announced that candidates John Matagi and Jennifer Krauss had withdrawn their applications that morning.