2024-12-20 Police Commission Regular Minutes

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HAWAI`I POLICE COMMISSION REGULAR SESSION MINUTES DECEMBER 20, 2024 COUNTY BUILDING, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, SUITE 1401 25 AUPUNI ST., HILO, HI CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL Chair Robinson called the meeting to order at 9.04 a.m. Present: Rick Robinson, Chair Arthur Buckman, Commissioner Rod Quartararo, Commissioner Anthony Sur, Commissioner Jacob Tavares, Commissioner Absent: John Bertsch, Vice Chair Eileen Lacerte, Commissioner A quorum was present. Also present: Benjamin Moszkowicz, Police Chief Reed Mahuna, Deputy Chief Scott Amaral, Major Sherry Bird, Major Thomas Shopay, Major Tuck Loy Aurello, Captain Sinclair Salas-Ferguson, Deputy Corporation Counsel Charisse Correa, Secretary STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS SHOPO Business Agent Gabe Malani addressed the commission regarding a complaint they filed, noting they had not received an investigative number and assumed the complaint was in non-acceptance status. Mr. Malani emphasized that the commission is the only entity with the authority to discipline the chief. He stated that everyone, including the chief, must adhere to the department's policies, procedures, and laws, including the collective bargaining agreement. Violations of these could be considered misconduct under the commission's purview. He urged the commission to investigate their complaint, as they believe it to be serious, to the point where Corp Counsel is involved. Mr. Malani described an attempt to remove their chapter chair, which he called "union busting" and a state violation. He urged the commission to investigate, emphasizing their authority to hire, fire, and discipline the chief. He stated that if the commission requires more information, SHOPO is willing to provide it, including a video. He asked the commission to investigate properly, and follow procedures and expressed that if the commission does not take action, they will pursue other avenues. He concluded by reminding the commission of their obligation to the community, including SHOPO, and urged them to address the grievances before they escalate further.