HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-05-17 Police Commission Regular Minutes HAWAFI POLICE COMMISSION
REGULAR SESSION MINUTES
MAY 17, 2024
WEST HAWAFI CIVIC CENTER, BUILDING A, COUNCIL CHAMBERS
74-5044 ANE KEOHOKALOLE HIGHWAY, KAILUA-KONA, HI
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Chair Robinson called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.
Present: Rick Robinson, Chair
John Bertsch, Vice Chair
Travis Ing, Commissioner
Eileen Lacerte, Commissioner
Anthony Sur, Commissioner
Jacob Tavares, Commissioner
Absent: Rod Quartararo, Commissioner
A quorum was present.
Also present: Benjamin Moszkowicz, Police Chief
Reed Mahuna, Acting Deputy Chief
Chad Basque, Assistant Chief
Sherry Bird, Major
Scott Amaral, Major
Tuck Loy Aurelio, Captain
Gavin Kagimoto, Detective
Dakota Frenz, Deputy Corporation Counsel
Charisse Correa, Secretary
STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS (None)
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
• Vice Chair Bertsch motioned to approve the April 19, 2024, regular and executive
session minutes with amendments (DCC Frenz's title on one line and correcting
SHOPO's presentation time). Seconded by Commissioner Tavares with no discussion,
it carried unanimously, and the minutes were approved.
POLICE CHIEFS REPORT ON DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES
Items from the Chief's written reports were highlighted:
• Crime Report: Major Amaral reported 4,739 serious crimes through April 30, 2024. Of
these, Area I and Area II criminal investigation units investigated 626 cases, with 371 in
Area I and 255 in Area II.
• Calls for Service: HPD received 9,387 calls for service, raising the fiscal year total to
100,715.
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Regular Session Minutes
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Page 2
Major Amaral noted that in addressing Commissioner Tavares' request, crime, and
traffic reports now include additional years of data. Chair Robinson suggested
increasing the font size for improved readability.
• Traffic Report: Assistant Chief Basque reported that as of May 6, 2024, there have
been 739 traffic crashes this fiscal year, down from 764 at the same time last year.
Traffic fatalities remain unchanged at 21 for both years. DUI arrests have decreased to
773 from 799 last year. In April 2024, there were 78 DUI arrests, an increase from 68 in
March 2024. Additionally, in April 2024, a total of 6,037 citations were issued, including
4,262 for moving/regulatory violations, 405 for seat belt violations, 38 for child restraint
violations, and 1,332 for speeding.
• Personnel Report: Major Bird reported that as of April 30, 2024, there are 89 sworn
police vacancies in the field, with 48 positions unfilled after accounting for recruit
classes: seven in the 98th recruit class, 17 in the 99th, and 17 in the 100th. For police
communication officers, 28 positions are currently filled, leaving 13 vacancies. All five
supervising police communication officer positions are fully staffed. Overall, the
department has filled 436 of 484 sworn positions (90%) and 126 of 157 civilian
positions (80%).
Police Officer I Recruitment Activities: The 100th recruit class consisting of 17 new
hires, began on April 1, 2024, and will be in academic training until September 30,
2024. The 99th recruit class, which started with 23 new hires in November 2023, has 17
recruits who have just graduated. In the 98th recruit class, seven officers were in field
training, with six now starting solo assignments. The 101st recruit class is scheduled to
start on July 16, 2024. On January 17, 2024, 58 attended the agility test (including eight
retakes), resulting in nine new eligible applicants: two no-shows, three passed, and 4
failed. On February 7, 2024, 26 referred names included 23 new applicants and three
retakes, with six no-shows, 13 passed, and seven failed. On March 6, 2024, 32 referred
names included 23 new applicants and 9 retakes, with 11 no-shows, 14 passed, and
seven failed. On April 3, 2024, 12 referred names included eight new applicants and
four retakes, with two no-shows, four passed, and six failed. Currently, 25 eligible
applicants are progressing through the vetting process for the 101st recruit class.
Internal Recruitments: The Police Officer III internal recruitment was held from
February 1 to February 20, 2024. They received a referred list and are awaiting
candidate folders and interviews. The recruitment for Police Sergeant/Detective and
Police Lieutenant included written exams, but this process was canceled. A new
recruitment is tentatively scheduled for May 26 to June 4, 2024. The internal Police
Captain recruitment ran from January 14 to January 23, 2024. Edwin Buyten was
promoted to the Kau district, effective May 16, 2024. Roylen Valera was temporarily
promoted to South Kohala, effective May 16, 2024, with the temporary promotion not
exceeding January 15, 2028. The Police Major recruitment also took place from
January 14 to January 23, 2024. Jeremie Evangelista received a temporary promotion
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Regular Session Minutes
May 17, 2024
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to the Technical Services Division, effective May 16, 2024, not to exceed January 15,
2028.
Other Recruitment Activities: Police Officer I recruitment opened as a continuous
process on December 3, 2023. The most recent written examination was held during
the week of April 22, 2024, followed by the physical agility test on May 8, 2024. From
these tests, 17 names were referred: 13 new applicants and four retakes. There were
two no-shows, nine passed, and six failed. Candidates eligible for a retake can do so at
the next agility test on June 5, 2024. The next written exams for the continuous Police
Officer I recruitment will take place during the week of May 20, 2024, with the
subsequent agility test scheduled for June 5, 2024.
• Finance: Major Bird reported that HPD's overall expenditure target was 77.47%, with
the actual expenditure at 76.73%. The target for salaries and wages was 87.5%, with
the actual figure at 86.73%. Regular salaries and wages were at 76.37%, overtime
salaries and wages at 252.96%, and miscellaneous salaries and wages at 123.22%.
Vice Chair Bertsch noted a large number of eligible candidates and inquired about the
progress of background checks. Major Bird responded that contracted background
investigators are exceeding expectations and processing backgrounds without any
backlog.
Vice Chair Bertsch asked about the term "temporary promotion," noting it was new to
him and asked for it to be defined. Chief Moszkowicz explained that due to a police
major vacancy, created when former Major Mahuna became deputy chief, Mahuna
retains return rights to his previous position. To avoid a conflict with two people in the
same position, they use temporary promotions. Although labeled as temporary, these
promotions grant the same rights and seniority as permanent ones after probation. It's
essentially an HR measure to handle potential reversals, making it a limited-term
appointment.
Commissioner Tavares asked if HPD conducts annual turnover or retention reports to
show trends. Major Bird replied that she didn't have the information at the moment but
would look into it.
Chair Robinson asked about probation and the impact of continuous recruitment on
years of service, specifically if recruits hired at different times but graduating together
would have varying service years. Chief Moszkowicz explained that due to different
application and test dates, some candidates are ready for hire sooner. Historically,
recruits would start on the same day, but now they can be offered temporary police
services officer positions, allowing them to begin work before the recruit class starts. If
they opt for this, they enter a civil service position with a maximum duration of 89 days.
The day before the recruit class begins, their appointment in this position ends. After a
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May 17, 2024
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one-day break, they start the next day with their recruit class. This process effectively
resets their seniority, probation, and civil service time calculations.
Regarding the probation period, Chief Moszkowicz stated that it begins on the first day
of the recruit class. The class lasts six months, followed by four months of field training.
This ten-month training period can be extended if needed. If recruits require additional
training and are not progressing, their probation period can be extended or their
employment terminated if necessary.
• Commendations &Awards: Chief Moszkowicz reported receiving nine commendations,
involving nine personnel since the last commission meeting, in recognition of
outstanding services. Additionally, not mentioned in the report, Officers Margot Babauta
and Curry McFadden received the Kona Crime Prevention Committee's Officer of the
Month for May. Aloha Exchange Club's Officers of the Month are James Cameros for
January, Bryson Miyose for February, and Manual Soares for March. Police
Communications Officer Nashley Leslie was named the Police Communications Officer
for the 1 st quarter of 2024.
• Chief Moszkowicz reported on other department activities and updates:
o West Hawai'i DARE Day took place at the Kona Aquatic Center, on May 10t"
recognizing 500 5t" and 6t" graders from the DARE Programs. This marked the
first DARE Day celebration since 2019 due to the pandemic, with East Hawai'i's
event scheduled for next week.
o Hawai'i Isle Police Activities League (HI-Pal) activities: Kona CPs teamed up
with local canoe clubs for the 2nd annual canoe regatta on March 30t", at the
Kailua Pier, where four clubs and around a hundred youth participated. A HI-Pal
5 on 5 basketball intramurals tournament was held at Honoka'a Intermediate
School on May 6t"
o As Police Week concludes, Chief Moszkowicz emphasized its significance,
marking Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15th and the week as Police
Week, proclaimed by President Kennedy in 1962. This morning at 11:00 a.m.,
HPD will host its Police Week Ceremony at the West Hawai'i Civic Center.
Tomorrow, he, the deputy chief, and two administration members will travel to
Oahu.
o The 99t" Police recruit class graduated on May 15t", consisting of 17 officers.
This class was the first to undergo the department's continuous recruitment
model and monthly agility tests, moving into four months of field training.
Discussion continued on continuous recruitment, with Chief Moszkowicz highlighting
differences between their approach and that of Honolulu PD due to disparities in size and
scope of operations. Despite the variations, HPD's hiring achievements surpass or match
those of Honolulu PD. Chief Moszkowicz hinted at significant milestones to come,
anticipating a historic announcement after the July recruit class. He commended HPD's
performance compared to other counties and the nation. Chair Robinson encouraged
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May 17, 2024
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commission members to attend the 100t" recruit class graduation, tentatively scheduled
around October 1st, Chief Moszkowicz will provide the exact date.
Commissioner Tavares inquired about ongoing, annual reviews to ensure the maintenance
of physical abilities and acquired knowledge. Chief Moszkowicz explained that currently,
there is no such review beyond the initial agility test and fitness assessment during the
academy. The agility test, designed decades ago by the County, mirrors the physical
demands of police work. There are ongoing discussions about potential future measures.
Chief Moszkowicz emphasized the goal is to encourage healthier lifestyles and fitness
levels rather than punishment, and any changes would involve collaboration with the
union.
Commissioner Tavares inquired about gym facilities and time allocations for HPD
personnel, citing practices in the Fire Department. Chief Moszkowicz explained that
officers have an unpaid lunch break during their shift, which they can use at their
discretion.
Commissioner Ing inquired about patrol's schedule, to which the chief responded that
patrol officers are not on an eight-hour and 45-minute shift. They work nine hours and 15
minutes, so in addition to their unpaid lunch break, there's a period of 45 minutes at the
end of their shift.
• Budget Presentation: Chief Moszkowicz explained that departments prepare their
budget requests for the fiscal year starting July 1 st. The mayor consolidates these
requests, balancing costs and income, and presents the initial budget in March. A
second draft is made in May for adjustments based on updated information, such as
property tax values and appeals. Yesterday was the first of two Council readings for the
May budget. The Chief proposed presenting the March budget overview today and will
provide details on the finalized budget at the next meeting.
Deputy Chief Mahuna briefed the commission on the department's March presentation
to the County Council, covering the fiscal year 2025 overview and objectives. He
highlighted fiscal year 2024 initiatives, including increasing recruit classes from two to
three per year and developing a system for recruiting out-of-state transfers. Equipment
improvements were noted, such as acquiring more vehicles, new body-worn cameras,
and transitioning to Taser 10. The department also obtained patrol rifles and
ammunition through a grant for enhanced training, and annual recall training has been
initiated with several personnel already completing it.
Vice Chair Bertsch inquired about recall training, to which Deputy Mahuna explained
that it aims to ensure the entire department receives training and, upon completion,
cycles back through for continuous training.
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Regular Session Minutes
May 17, 2024
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Deputy Chief Mahuna referred to the slideshow displaying department staffing,
highlighting a total budget of $89,174,000 with a budget increase of over $4.3 million.
He mentioned the department's 25 active grants, totaling over $6 million, with varying
annual awards. Notably, SPUR Tech will allow HPD to provide the public with case
updates and information on police responses. Vice Chair Bertsch requested a
presentation on SPIDR Tech, and Deputy Mahuna agreed.
Additionally, Deputy Mahuna reported new contracts and services, including a wellness
app and Cellebrite mobile forensics software. The department is considering increasing
the fee for special duty. There are plans to add positions, including one captain position
to oversee vice operations island-wide, improving coordination of drug operations.
Puna Patrol will receive another lieutenant and a sergeant will be assigned to the
wellness unit. Three detective positions are planned, including one for OPS criminal
investigations, one for OPS, and one for HR recruitment. There will also be four PO III
positions, two PO II positions for the Area I crime reduction unit, and one civilian
position for a media relations specialist, although it is currently unfunded. Further
details and updated numbers will be provided in a future presentation.
Commissioner Tavares inquired about the department's vehicle and equipment
replacement schedule and turnover frequency. Deputy Mahuna explained that this
issue was raised at the County Council, prompting the development of a plan to retire
old vehicles and acquire new ones due to excessive maintenance costs. While there is
a schedule for vehicle depreciation, there isn't a specific plan for retirement and
turnover. Firearms have no standard usable life, but radars and lasers are regularly
replaced using Department of Transportation grants. Computers follow a replacement
schedule. When Commissioner Tavares asked about new firearm purchases in the
budget, Deputy Mahuna explained they were for training purposes, providing patrol
rifles for officers' training without disrupting their duties.
Commissioner Tavares inquired about the salary increases resulting from the Collective
Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), asking for either the percentage or dollar figure.
Deputy Mahuna responded that he doesn't have the exact number, but he believes the
across-the-board pay increase for SHOPO members is 5% as of July 1st. He stated he
would get the exact figures of what that would be moving forward.
Vice Chair Bertsch inquired about HPD's collaboration with the Department of Public
Works (DPW) regarding building maintenance. Deputy Mahuna mentioned the ongoing
communication with DPW, acknowledging the challenges involved. Many building
issues require capital improvement funding, resulting in patchwork solutions over the
past two decades. While HPD does work with DPW on facility matters, many projects
require capital improvements, which DPW doesn't have the resources for. Additionally,
certain tasks, such as painting and addressing water leaks, may need to be handled by
DPW due to union job regulations, further complicating the process. There are also
concerns about mitigation requirements for certain paint issues. Commissioner Ing
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Regular Session Minutes
May 17, 2024
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noted that addressing building maintenance has been a challenge for previous chiefs
for a quarter of a century.
Chair Robinson inquired about the detailed budget presentation to the County Council.
Chief Moszkowicz replied that the first presentation was held yesterday, with the
second scheduled for the end of May. Chair Robinson then asked if any council
member suggested defunding the Police Department. Chief Moszkowicz stated that
they had all been supportive and even offered positions and funding exceeding the
department's needs or capacity. Chair Robinson queried about the correlation between
the number of officers and the island's population, to which the chief explained that
they generally align with national guidelines, although these guidelines do not consider
the unique geography of the island.
Vice Chair Bertsch stressed the Police Commission's responsibility to review the
annual budget and for the chair to draft a confirmation letter to the mayor. He
suggested the chair traditionally sits next to the chief during the County Council budget
presentation and offered this opportunity to Chair Robinson, who mentioned being out
of town. Chief Moszkowicz proposed aligning this participation with the
January/February presentation of the following year's budget plan outlining the
following year's budget plan. Chair Robinson suggested Vice Chair Bertsch attend with
the chief in May if available. Vice Chair Bertsch noted this is usually the chair's role.
Chief Moszkowicz clarified that the second May meeting involves private discussions
with the County Council about funding requests, like the media position, aiming for
amendments by July.
Vice Chair Bertsch highlighted the importance of securing funding for commission
duties, such as attending conferences, additional training, and other necessary
expenses, noting this has not been an issue in the past.
Chair Robinson asked if the commission felt adequately informed about the budget and
supported it enough to draft a letter of encouragement to the mayor. Vice Chair Bertsch
referenced the commission's duty to review the annual budget prepared by the chief of
police and make recommendations to the mayor if the commission finds the budget
acceptable.
Chair Robinson then asked if there was a motion to draft a letter to the mayor affirming
the budget's acceptance. In a unanimous vote, the commission approved a motion by
Vice Chair Bertsch, seconded by Commissioner Lacerte, to send a letter to the mayor
expressing their support for Chief Moszkowicz's 2024-2025 budget proposal.
NEW BUSINESS
Correspondence No. 24-13: Save the Date, Hawai'i State Law Enforcement Officials
Association (HSLEOA) 68t" Annual Conference and Awards Banquet in Kaua'i.
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May 17, 2024
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Chair Robinson confirmed receipt of the conference information by all commissioners. Vice
Chair Bertsch provided an overview of the HSLEOA conference for new commissioners,
highlighting its importance and recommending attendance if possible. Chair Robinson
emphasized the value of networking with commissioners from other islands, sharing his
positive experience from previous conferences. He encouraged everyone to attend.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Review and discuss the Police Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure with a
focus pertaining to internal and external complaints.
Chair Robinson acknowledged a previously scheduled meeting to review the commission's
rules that was postponed. He proposed rescheduling the special meeting in July. Ms.
Correa advised that the Hilo Council Chambers is tentatively reserved for Thursday, July
11t" at 9:00 A.M. Commissioners Sur, Bertsch, Tavares, Lacerte, and Robinson confirmed
availability. Commissioner Ing will be absent.
Chair Robinson stated the commission also needs to work on the evaluation of the Police
Chief. He proposed adopting Maui's improved evaluation format. This format, a significant
improvement over Hawaii County's previous format, would be distributed to the
commission for review. Chief Moszkowicz would then conduct a self-evaluation using the
same format. To ensure a comprehensive and objective assessment, the commission
would hold discussions with Chief Moszkowicz to review both his self-evaluation and their
observations. This collaborative approach aims to reach a joint evaluation. Chair Robinson
acknowledged the potential for media leaks, similar to what happened with Maui's
evaluation. He emphasized the importance of maintaining objectivity throughout the
process.
Vice Chair Bertsch stated that the chief's evaluation is an internal document and is
confidential. If the chief chooses to release it to the media, that decision is his. As they
begin the annual review of the chief, the commission should understand that all
discussions are confidential and privileged. He recommended redacting the form from
Maui, distributing it to the commission for review, and then providing a cleaned-up version
to Chief Moszkowicz. The chief can fill it out for their next Police Commission meeting,
where they will review, discuss, and aim to finalize it during the regular July meeting on
July 19t"
Chief Moszkowicz noted he would not be present at the July meeting and suggested
conducting the review via Zoom in July. Chair Robinson proposed reviewing the evaluation
with the chief in June, addressing any questions, and if necessary, finalizing it at the July
19t" meeting.
DCC Frenz reminded the commission that they previously decided not to use Zoom for
meetings, citing specific reasons and a formal motion made during a meeting in Kona. She
suggested that to avoid any technological issues and ensure a clear process, it would be
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May 17, 2024
Page 9
better to conduct the evaluation in person. Chair Robinson asked if the chief would be
available in August, to which Chief Moszkowicz confirmed he would be.
Chair Robinson recalled that the referenced meeting in Kona focused on broadcasting the
Police Commission meetings on YouTube, not on Zoom appearances. DCC Frenz clarified
that the decision covered recordings and Zoom engagements in general. Chair Robinson
remembered differently, thinking they decided against broadcasting but allowed Zoom
participation. DCC Frenz reiterated that the minutes reflect concerns about Zoom and
suggested that the commission could change its approach through a motion.
Commissioner Tavares asked when it would be appropriate to revisit this discussion,
expressing his disagreement with not allowing Zoom, though he agreed the chief's
evaluation should be in person. He noted that Zoom could be a useful tool in other
situations.
Chair Robinson stated this issue would be placed on the next agenda for discussion. He
advised Chief Moszkowicz that they would finalize the evaluation in August. In the
meantime, they will prepare the document from Maui, and send it out to everyone,
including the chief, so he can start filling it out and rating himself. They will discuss it in
person at the June meeting, and with the chief absent in July, they will complete the
evaluation in August during an open session.
Vice Chair Bertsch stated that the evaluation must be conducted in executive session and
then ratified in open session. DCC Frenz noted that it is Chief Moszkowicz's right to
request an open session, as the evaluation goes into his personnel file. Otherwise, it must
be in executive session. Chief Moszkowicz stated he has no preference and is willing to
waive his rights, intending to share the results regardless of the outcome.
DCC Frenz clarified for the record that Chief Moszkowicz waived his rights to have his
evaluation in an executive session and agreed to have it in an open session.
Chair Robinson asked Ms. Correa to send the commission the previous meeting minutes
discussing the use of Zoom. DCC Frenz stated it involved multiple issues and she would
email the commission the link.
Commissioner Sur agreed with DCC Frenz, recalling that Zoom was problematic.
Commissioner Lacerte noted she uses Zoom multiple times a day and believes it's
manageable. She stated you have control over who you let in and who you don't, it's not
rocket science.
DCC Frenz explained that during the chief selection process, hundreds joined via Zoom,
complicating executive sessions, and making it difficult. There were issues with people
unmuting and making inappropriate comments. It's a significant amount of gatekeeping
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May 17, 2024
Page 10
that Ms. Correa doesn't have the manpower to handle alone, and she lacks a backup,
which is a separate issue.
Chair Robinson asked if anyone had any concerns that might prevent them from being
objective in the police chief's evaluation. There were none.
There was a discussion regarding HPC 24-13. The complainant requested a deferral to the
next meeting. Chair Robinson explained that the complainant had submitted a substantial
amount of information, and he wanted to address it promptly. He then asked the
commission if they preferred to proceed in the complainant's absence or defer to the next
meeting. Vice Chair Bertsch stated he had no reservations about hearing the case now or
deferring it.
EXECUTIVE SESSION (CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC)
Vice Chair Bertsch motioned to meet in executive session to consider charges against
officers or employees of the police department, where matters affecting privacy will be
involved; to consider sensitive matters related to public safety, and may consult with the
board's attorney on questions and issues pertaining to the commission's powers, duties,
privileges, immunities, and liabilities pursuant to HRS 92-5 (a)(2)(4)(6) and the Hawaii
County Charter Section 13-20 (b). Seconded by Commissioner Tavares, with no
discussion, it carried unanimously. Executive session convened at 10:41 a.m.
Motion to reconvene open session made by Commissioner Sur, seconded by
Commissioner Ing, with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. The regular session
reconvened at 12:40 p.m.
There was a discussion regarding the importance of viewing body-worn camera footage
before questioning complainants and personnel.
ACTION ON EXECUTIVE SESSION MATTERS
Investigation of complaints:
• HPC 24-13: The complainant alleges malfeasance, misfeasance, and nonfeasance
stemming from the opposition to Hawaii Senate Bill 3335. Commissioner Tavares
motioned that there was insufficient evidence to prove the complainant's allegations
of misconduct, seconded by Commissioner Sur. During the discussion,
Commissioner Tavares inquired about formally declaring the accusation unfounded.
Chair Robinson explained that they would proceed based on insufficient evidence.
DCC Frenz suggested he could specify reasons in the motion to articulate the
rationale in the minutes, but Commissioner Tavares chose not to amend the motion.
With no further discussion, the motion carried unanimously.
• HPC 23-41: The complainant alleges the officer laughed at her, called her rude, and
would not provide her with a police report number. Commissioner Lacerte motioned
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May 17, 2024
Page 11
to refer to the chief for customer service concerns. Seconded by Commissioner Sur,
with no discussion, the motion carried unanimously.
• HPC 24-03: The complainant alleges the officer failed to properly investigate their
assault report. Commissioner Lacerte motioned to refer to the chief for customer
service concerns. With no second, the motion failed. Commissioner Ing motioned
that there was insufficient evidence to prove the complainant's misconduct
allegations. Seconded by Commissioner Tavares, with no discussion, the motion
carried unanimously.
• HPC 24-04: The complainant alleges that an officer drove behind her at high speed
without headlights, causing fear, before subsequently pulling her over.
Commissioner Tavares made a motion to refer to the chief for customer service and
procedural concerns. Seconded by Commissioner Lacerte, with no discussion, the
motion carried unanimously.
• Complaints in the non-acceptance category:
o HPC 24-16: Commissioner Ing motioned to accept the chair's decision to
decline the investigation for failure to comply with the Police Commission's
Rules of Practice and Procedure (Rule 6). Commissioner Tavares seconded,
with no discussion, and it carried unanimously.
o HPC 24-14: Commissioner Tavares motioned to accept the chair's decision to
decline investigation for failure to comply with the Police Commission's Rules
of Practice and Procedure (Rule 6). Commissioner Sur seconded, with no
discussion, and it carried unanimously.
Motion to go back into executive session to discuss the status report of referred and
external complaints made by Commissioner Ing, seconded by Commissioner Tavares, with
no discussion, and it carried unanimously. The executive session reconvened at 12:59
p.M.
Motion to reconvene open session made by Commissioner Ing, seconded by
Commissioner Sur, with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. The regular session
reconvened at 1:09 p.m.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Chair Robinson announced the next meeting is scheduled for Friday, June 21, 2024, at
9:00 a.m., at the County Building, Council Chambers, Suite #1401, 25 Aupuni St., Hilo,
Hawaii. The special meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., also
in Hilo Council Chambers.
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May 17, 2024
Page 12
Commissioner Ing raised concerns about an email received, suggesting heavy
implications. Commissioner Tavares, being new to the commission, expressed particular
concern about the email's content. They both agreed it should be placed on an agenda for
further discussion. DCC Frenz clarified the communication was privileged, and Chair
Robinson confirmed it would be addressed in executive session at the next meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 1:12 p.m.
SUBMITTED BY: CHARISSE CORREA, SECRETARY
APPROVED BY: RICK ROBINSON, CHAIR