HomeMy WebLinkAboutRodney DeLima- January 2022OJJN rpi 0 IF Wij ' J
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nunewdation
Awarded to
RODNEY DELIMA, POLICE OFFICER II
Officer of the Month, January 2022
On behalf of the citizens of the County of Hawai`i and the East Hawai`i Aloha
Exchange Club, it is a great pleasure to congratulate Officer Rodney DeLima of PunaPatrolforthishonor, based on his skillful communication and de-escalation
techniques, and his conscientious approach to stressful and dynamic situations.
On the evening of January 9, 2022, Officer DeLima was assigned to a
domestic dispute which occurred in the Hawaiian Beaches neighborhood of the Puna
District. The female caller reported that she was locked out of her residence and the
suspect, her partner of more than twenty years, was experiencing a severe emotional
crisis.
Officer De Lima arrived on scene and rapidly assessed the situation. The
suspect was situated behind a closed bedroom door, armed with knives, showing
signs of mental distress and volatility, and presenting a potential risk to himself.
With active listening skills, respect, and empathy, Officer De Lima was able
to build rapport and trust with the suspect, decrease the intensity of the situation,
and encourage a safe resolution. Tragedy was averted and the suspect was
transported to Hilo Medical Center for an emergency evaluation and the necessary
mental health treatment.
Officer DeLima's commitment to compassionate and respectful dialogue led
to a favorable outcome for the responding officers and the suspect. He embodies the
Hawai'i Police Department core values of Integrity, Professionalism, Compassion,
Teamwork and Community Satisfaction.
Done this 24th day of February 2022.
MITCHELL D. ROTH
MAYOR