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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-07-18 Police Commission Regular Minutes HAWAII POLICE COMMISSION REGULAR SESSION MINUTES JULY 18, 2025 74-5044 ANE KEOHOKALOLE HIGHWAY, KAILUA-KONA, HI CALL TO ORDERAND ROLLCALL Chair Robinsoncalled the meeting to order at 9:01a.m. Present: Rick Robinson, Chair John Bertsch, Vice Chair Wendy Botelho, Commissioner Arthur Buckman, Commissioner Lloyd Enriquez, Commissioner Eileen Lacerte, Commissioner Jacob Tavares, Commissioner Greg Yamada, Commissioner A quorum was present. Also present:Benjamin Moszkowicz, Police Chief Reed Mahuna, Deputy Chief Sherry Bird, Assistant Chief Scott Amaral, Major Sandor Finkey, Major Thomas Shopay, Major Rio Amon-Wilkins, Captain Tuck Loy Aurello, Captain Denise Laitinen, Public Relations Officer Sinclair Salas-Ferguson, Deputy Corporation Counsel Charisse Correa, Secretary STATEMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC ON AGENDA ITEMS Chair Robinson asked that public testimony stay focused on agenda items. Kelly Greenwell opposed federal ICE agents, calling theiractions discriminatory, unconstitutional, and harmful to community sovereignty, and urged local leaders to resist. Chair Robinson stated that the ICE matter was already included on the Police Commission’s May agenda, was discussed at that meeting, and is reflected in the minutes. He noted that anyone may review the minutes and reiterated the need to keep the discussion focused on current agenda items. Tina Marie urged the commission to select achief whoupholds due process, human dignity, and the rights of all people regardless of immigration status. She called for candidates to address accountability, legal compliance in enforcement, and resistance to Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 2 federal immigration pressures. She criticized ICE agents’ actions as cruel and harmful to families, urging leadership that protects communities over federal enforcement priorities. Maki Morinoue urged selecting a chief who will protect the community, end local collaboration with ICE, and increase public access to commission discussions. Commissioner Tavares arrived at 9:15 a.m. Ellen Lubrano spoke on the selection of the interim and permanent police chief, emphasizing the need for strong leadership, integrity, accountability, and commitment to the Big Island’s unique community. She opposed local police involvement in federal immigration enforcement, citing its negative impact on trust and resource allocation, and urged selecting a chief dedicated to serving and protecting all residents. Kellyna Campbell addressed potential conflicts of interest in a close-knit community and emphasized the need for ethical leadership and constitutional understanding within law two-day constitutional law and ethical foundations training in Hilo and Kona to strengthen officer integrity, address conflicts of interest, and rebuild public trust. Nancy Moser spoke on the selection of the interim and permanent police chief, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and building public trust in law enforcement. She urged the commission to ask candidates how they will ensure proper identification of all law enforcement personnel operating locally, uphold due process, and prevent actions that could erode community trust. Savannah WheelerstatedMOUs between HPD and federalagenciesshould be terminated, stressing the importance of considering community concerns and constitutional rights in guiding the next police chief. Deirdre Roney testified,urging the commission to select an interim and permanent police chief who will end all agreements between HPD and federal immigration agencies. She cited her extensive experience working along the southern border and with immigrant communities, warning that collaboration with ICE and CBP harms civil rights, worsens chief who will reject MOUs and 287(g) agreements, require officers to wear full uniforms, andensure HPD prioritizes protecting the local community over federal immigration enforcement. Patricia Rose urgedthe commission to cancel the MOU allowing HPD to cooperate with ICE. She stated that such agreements endanger officers, erode public trust, and undermine community safety. Rose emphasized the importance of transparency in selecting both the interim and permanent police chief, stressing that rebuilding trust between HPD and the community must be a priority. Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 3 Christina Holt thanked the commission for removing Chief Moszkowicz, calling it the right decision, but urged them to go further. She testified that HPD must stop collaborating with ICE, describing how families are being racially profiled, separated, and funneled into deportation pipelines with taxpayer resources. Holt statedthis isstate-sponsored violence and a betrayal of community trust. She called on the commission to recommend that County Council terminateall MOUs with ICE, set firm expectations for the next chief, and ensure civil righ accountability, and community safety. Sam Guckenheimer, representing Kona Indivisible, urged the commission to ask specific questions of candidates for interim and permanent police chief regarding HPD’s cooperation with ICE and other federal agencies. He requested that candidates’ answers be made public, focusing on transparency, protection of residents’ rights, proper identification of federal agents, limitations on cooperation with raids, and ensuring all actions comply with the law and community values. Kate Jacobson requested that thecommission adopt two policies when hiring the interim and new police chief: prohibit the use of masks so officers and agents are clearly identifiable, and reject all agreements with Homeland Security and related federal immigration agencies. She emphasized that trust requires transparency, fear undermines public safety, and collaboration with federal immigration practices risks eroding community trust in HPD. Andrea Pro,a Kona coffee farm owner and second-generation daughter of immigrants, testified that immigrant workerslong valued as essential members of the communityare now living in fear, keeping their children home and avoiding work due to ICE activity. She urged the commission to ensure the next police chief has the ethics and courage to reject collaboration with ICE, beginning with revoking MOUs and related agreements, to help restore community trust. Belinda Pate, a healthcare provider, testified that nurses and police have long shared a relationship of mutual respect, noting that seeing officers in the hospital has always reassured her that “everything’s going to be okay.” She emphasized the importance of trust in HPD, explaining that just as nursestake an oath to do no harm, she hopes the newly appointed police chiefwill uphold that same principle. Janet Matlock described herself as strongly pro-lawenforcement, said she no longer feels safe with HPD due to the MOU allowing ICE agents to be embedded in police facilities. She said this agreement erodes trust, creates fear in immigrant and marginalized communities, and makes it unclear who is ICE and who is HPD. She urged the commission to ensure the next chief rejects collaboration with ICE so officers are seen as protectors, not extensions of federal immigration enforcement. Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 4 Peter Matlock explained thatthe most important issue in selecting a new police chief is ICE collaboration. He urged that the next chief be required to terminate the current MOU with ICE and avoid any new agreements, arguing that ICE involvement undermines trust, endangers community safety, misuses local resources, and compromises constitutional rights. He stressed that HPD must remain independent and accountable to the community, not federal immigration enforcement. Patti Cook expressed appreciation for the Police Department’s partnership in keeping the community safe,but stressed that trust is jeopardized by ICE collaboration. She shared that many community members recently attended a rapid response training to prepare for immigration enforcement actions,learning how to stay safe, remain peaceful, and push back appropriately. She stated that they plan to continue these efforts, to be more vocal, and to show up at commission and councilmeetings to advocate for removing MOUs from county policy and preventing any 287(g) agreements from being implemented.She urged the commission to ensure the new police chief prioritizes community safety by ending cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, noting that immigrant families live in fear daily and need protection. POLICE CHIEF’S REPORT ON DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES Items from the chief’sreports were highlighted: Crime Report:MajorScottAmaralreported 5,928 serious crimes through June 30, 2025.Area I and Area II criminal investigation units investigated 773of these serious crimes, with 514in Area I and259in Area II. Calls for Service: InJune 2025,the department received 9,755 calls for service. Fiscal year to date is 92,899. Traffic Report:Major Thomas Shopayreported that as of July 16, 2025,there were 1,009traffic crashes this fiscal year, compared to 911last year.Traffic fatalities are at 23,compared to25the previous year.DUI arrestsfor the yearare at943compared to 946.In June2025, there were 69DUI arrests,compared to88the previous month.In June2025,5,213citations were issued, including 3,472for moving/regulatory, 336for seat belt violations, 14for child restraint violations, and 1,081for speeding. Personnel Report: Assistant ChiefSherry Bird reported 85 sworn police vacanciesin the field, not including five recruits from the 102nd class and five from the 103rd class. For police communication officers, 23 positions are filled and 16 remain vacant. Among supervising police communication officer positions, four are filled,with one vacancy. Overall, the department has filled 419of 493sworn positions (85%) and 119of 161 civilian positions (74%). Assistant Chief Bird provided an update onrecruitment activities, recruit classes, and ongoing recruitment efforts. Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 5 Finance: Assistant ChiefBirdreported that HPD's overall expenditure target was 100%, with the actual expenditure at 100.15%. The target salaries and wages were100%, with the actual at 113.08%. Regularsalaries and wages were at 98.20%, overtime salaries and wages at 307.35%, and miscellaneous salaries and wages at 177.78%. Recess was called at 10:23 a.m., and the meeting reconvened at 10:33 a.m. New Software:Denise Laitinen, Public Relations Officer, and Major Sandor Finkey, Technical Services, presented on "Versaterm Community Connect," a new technology designed to enhance community engagement and transparency. The system is scheduled to go live to the public on July 30th. The software provides automatic text or email updates to callers when they contact police for service. Updates may include acknowledgment of the call, notification if an officer is delayed, confirmation once the call is completed, and case status changes (e.g., assignment to a detective, referral to the prosecutor’s office, or case closure). Messages are available in English, Spanish, and Tagalog. The system integrates with the department’s Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Records Management System to ensure victimsreceive appropriate case updates. For those without text-capable phones, case information is accessible through a victim portal at engage.hawaiipolice.gov. A survey feature allows community members to provide feedback on their experience with personnel. This feedback will support training, improve customer service, and enhance overall department accountability. Commissioner Lacerte asked if the system allows two-way communication. Major Finkey noted that feedback can be provided through surveys.Ms. Laitinen explained that victims will receive the detective’s contact information to follow up directly. Concerns were raised about delays between text notifications and officer arrival; staff will consult with the developer on possible improvements. Commissioner Lacerte also raised concerns about domestic violence cases; it was clarified that certain case types can be excluded from notifications. Commissioner Botelho praised the program and asked about community outreach. Ms. Laitinen described a multi-pronged approach including media releases, social media, staff training, and coordination with community policing officers. Major Finkey added that community relations officers will distribute materials at public events. Ongoing media campaigns are planned. Vice Chair Bertsch asked technical questions regarding the verification of caller information and whether patrol officers would have additional duties. Major Finkey explained that officers woulddistribute cards with the QR code and website. Bertsch Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 6 also asked about survey timing, which can be activated at any time, with results compiled monthly. Commissioner Tavares asked about staffing and budget impacts. Major Finkey stated there are no staffing increases required, minimal personnel impact, and no additional costs beyond the software. He also asked about opting out of texts, which will be available. Chair Robinson asked how updates are handled once cases are referred to the prosecutor’s office. Major Finkey explained that the prosecutor’s contact information will be provided, but the department does not give further updates beyond that point. Missing Persons Presentation:Captain Rio Amon-Wilkins of the Area I Criminal Investigation Division presented a comprehensive review of missing person cases initiated island-wide from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2025. A total of 808 caseswere initiated during this period, averaging 147 annually.Of these, 39 individuals remain missing,with approximately 95-96% of all reported missing individuals being located.Abreakdown of unresolved cases by year is as follows: o 2020: 5 of 139 cases remain open o 2021: 5 of 152 cases remain open o 2022: 7 of 153 cases remain open o 2023: 10 of 144 cases remain open o 2024: 6 of 156 cases remain open o 2025 (to date): 6 of 64 cases remain open Captain Amon-Wilkins highlighted a significant trend among the 39 unresolved cases: 18 cases (46%) were water-related incidents. These included activities such as shoreline fishing, opihi picking, diving, boating, and kayaking. Other circumstances for the unresolved cases involved suspected homicides, suicides, individuals with known mental health concerns, and instances where individuals are believed to have intentionally left the island or country. Some reports were also noted to have significant delays between when the person was last seen and when they were officially reported missing. Commissioner Lacerte asked for clarification on the term “suspected suicide,” questioning whether that indicated the individual had been located or if it was only the conclusion of the investigation. Captain Amon-Wilkins explained that such determinations are based on the totality of the investigation.She also inquired about follow-up in the case of a missing individual believed to be in the Philippines. He Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 7 responded that the department does not have the capacity to pursue cases in foreign countries; however, it is department policy to keep these cases open with an active APB, and detectives will pursue any leads that arise. Commissioner Lacerte further asked whether there were comparable statistics from other counties. Captain Amon-Wilkins explained that,unlike portrayals in media where a 24 or 48-hour waiting period is required before filing a missing person report, in ,cases can be initiated immediately. He noted that the transient population contributes to the number of reports, as some individuals choose to relocate or sever contact with family, resulting in family members filing reports. In some situations, individuals reported as missing do not consider themselves missing and refuse to meet with officers, which prevents cases from being closed until direct, face- to-face contact is made. He emphasized that while there has been public concern on social media about the number of missing persons, the vast majority of cases over the past five and a half years have been thoroughly investigated and have reasonable explanations. missing person statistics on a per capita basiswith state or national averages. He also asked whether the division had sufficient resources to investigate these cases. Captain Amon-Wilkins responded that while the department is short-staffed, his detectives are highly committed and conduct excellent investigations. Tavares encouraged him to emphasize resource needs in future budget discussions, noting the public’s strong interest in missing person cases. Commissioner Enriquez asked whether juveniles were included in the statistics. Captain Amon-Wilkinsclarified that the report focused on adults, with the exception of one case involving a six-year-old child believed to be with their biological mother. He further explained that juvenile cases are typically treated as runaways unless there is evidence thechild did not leave voluntarily, in which case they are investigated as missing persons. Vice Chair Bertsch expressed his appreciation for the handling of missing person cases, noting that the report is excellent and provides valuable insight into what is truly happening. He thanked Captain Amon-Wilkins for his work and dedication. Police Chief’s Report (cont.): Chief Moszkowicz stated he wanted to take a brief moment to thank the commission and department members for the opportunity to serve as chief over the past two and a half years. He expressed his gratitude to the commission for their support in allowing him to transition into retirement at the end of August. He noted that today is essentially his last day in the office, although he will have some remaining administrative responsibilities through the end of August. During that time, he will be on paid leave using accumulated vacation from his 25 years of service. As part of the transition, he Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 8 felt it was appropriate for Deputy Chief Mahunato providethe remainder of the report to the commission. Commendations& Awards:Deputy Chief Mahuna reported several recognitions and commendations. Officer Kyle Murray was named Kona Crime Prevention Officer of the Month for April 2025, and Officer Rylen Fujii was recognized for arresting a suspect in a series of financial crimes. Officer “Kaipo” Stender was commended for safely detaining a suspect who attacked a 75-year-old woman, leading to felony charges. Officer Kelena Kealoha was recognized as HISSPA Officerof the Quarter for Q1 2025. Officers Lawrence Kobayashi, Landon Takenishi, and Sergeant Thomas Koyanagi were honored by MADD for efforts to curb impaired driving. Since the last meeting, six commendations involving nine personnel were received for outstanding service. Everbridge System: Effective Tuesday, July 15, 2025, all police emergency notifications County Civil Defense. Existing Nixle subscribers have automatically been transferred and do not need to take action to continue receiving alerts. Residents can create a free Everbridge account to customize which notifications they receive, including police road closures, missing children alerts, and Civil Defense tsunamior hurricane warnings. South Kohala HI-PAL Keiki Fishing Derby:On June 28, 2025, the Hawai‘i Isle Police Activities League (HI-PAL) hosted a fishing derby for 138 youth in South Kohala, supported by Community Police Officers, Conservation Enforcement Officers, and local volunteers. Public Hearings on New Firearms Rules:The Hawai‘i Police Department plans to replace its 1997 rules for carrying concealed and unconcealed weapons with new Rule 1 and Rule 2, updating the permit and licensing process and outlining appeal procedures for denials. The changes align the rules with state law effective January 2024. Public hearings will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at the West Hawai‘i Civic Center, Council Chambers, and Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Aunty Sally’s Luau Hale. Other Departmental Activities and Updates: Chair Robinson noted that Chief Moszkowicz will be on vacation from Monday through the end of August. Under General Order 202, which outlines the department’s successionplan, the Deputy Chief will serve as Acting Police Chief. Deputy Chief Mahuna confirmed he is prepared to assume these responsibilities. Commissioner Tavares noted that theirpacket included vicestatsand asked if a presentation on these statistics would be provided. Deputy Chief Mahuna stated it would be beneficial for Captain Buyten to present at the next meeting, providing detailed explanations, context, and answers to questions, including year-over-year Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 9 trends and per capita comparisons to statewide averages. The commission agreed to include this presentation. Vice Chair Bertsch added that while monthly reports include crime, traffic, and sometimes narcotics data, narcotics activity is not specifically identified. He suggested incorporating more detailed information on narcotics enforcement and the new program implemented by Chief Moszkowicz, including ongoing operations and enforcement efforts, into future reports for greater clarity and insight. NEW BUSINESS Correspondence No. 25-14:Concern regarding oversized truck tires and enforcement. Major Shopay reported there were263 citationsissuedin 2024 and 356 year-to-date in 2025 for violations of County Code 24-105, requiring mud flaps or fender protection. He noted challenges in enforcement, including vehicles being quickly modified to pass safety checks and the relatively low $72 fine, but emphasized that officers continue to actively monitor and address these violations. There was further discussion regarding enforcement, vehicle modifications, varying county codes in Hawai‘i, and related safety concerns. NEW BUSINESS Police Department Policies Regarding Conflicts: Deputy Chief Mahuna reported that the department currently does not have a standalone conflict of interest policy, though existing standards of conduct address related behavior. He is exploring drafting a standalone policy, using the Honolulu Police Department’s policy as a reference. Commissioners discussed considerations regarding family members working together, and Deputy Chief Mahuna confirmed that direct reporting between immediate family members is generally prohibited. DCC Salas-Ferguson noted that a new nepotism provision in the Hawai‘i County Code of Ethics now prohibits hiring or supervising immediate family members, and Deputy Mahuna reported that department members recently completed a survey to ensure compliance. NEW BUSINESS Appointment of Temporary Chief of Police: Chair Robinson opened the discussion regarding the appointment of a temporary Chief of Police following Chief Moskowitz's retirement at the end of August. He explained options andproposed appointing Deputy Chief Mahuna as the temporary chief to streamline the process and focus the commission's energy on the extensive search for a permanent chief. Commissioner Tavares voiced a preference for a more transparent process that would solicit applications for the temporary position to ensure openness. Commissioner Botelho agreed, stating a desire to find the most passionate person for the job, even in a temporary capacity, and suggested asking for letters of interest. Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 10 Vice Chair Bertsch noted that the department’s general orders already have a succession plan in place that allows for continuity and that creating a separate selection process for a temporary chief might cause confusion. Itwon’tserve the best interestsof the department and the public. DCC Salas-Ferguson clarified that while the commission is required to appoint a temporary chief, the rules do not set a procedure or timeline, giving the commission broad discretion. Until a temporary chief is appointed, the deputyserves as acting chiefunder general nd orders. He suggested that at the August 22 meeting, Human Resources could provide input on an abbreviated selection process for the temporary chief, withthe commission th potentially making a selection by September 19. He noted that discussions on the permanent chief selection process could also begin at the same time, and both processes could run concurrently. Chair Robinson stated that he has been in contactwith HR to provide a presentation on theselection process. He noted that the process is extensive, pointing out that Honolulu is hiring a company to conduct itschief search. He expressed concern that repeating that approach for both the temporary and permanent chief could overburden staff and create confusion. His goal is to streamline the process, though he is open to additional support if the commission wants a broader perspective. Commissioner Lacerte clarified that while public testimony on ICEis important,it needs to be addressed in its proper place.She explained that theimmediate focus is on appointing a temporary chief.She then made a motion to follow the department's established succession plan to allow the commission to begin the extensive work of selecting a permanent chief. DCC Salas-Ferguson confirmed that the intentof the motionwas to appoint a temporary chief immediately, specifically by following the succession plan to appoint Deputy Chief Mahuna. Chair Robinson announced that a motion had been made to appoint Acting Chief Reed st Mahuna as temporary chief, effective September 1, pending the selection of a permanent police chief. He asked for a second, and Vice Chair Bertsch seconded the motion. Discussion followedregarding the commission's options. Commissioner Tavares questioned the process for soliciting letters of interest for the temporary position, confirming with counsel that interviews were not required. Vice Chair Bertsch raised concerns about the administrative challenges and potential for confusion if they pursued a separate selection process before the end of August, while DCC Salas-Ferguson clarified that Deputy Chief Mahuna would serve as acting chiefuntil a temporary chief was appointed, giving the commission time. Chair Robinson reiterated his desire to avoid a confusing dual process and keep the focus on the search for a permanent chief. Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 11 With no further discussion, Chair Robinsoncalled for a vote on the motion to appoint Acting Chief Reed Mahuna as temporarychief,pending the selection of the permanent chief. A roll call vote was taken. Before casting his vote, Commissioner Yamada confirmed that an "aye" meant Deputy Chief Mahuna would serve as temporary chief until a permanent chief is selected. The vote was recorded as follows: In Favor (Ayes):CommissionersYamada, Lacerte, Enriquez, Buckman, Bertsch, Robinson Opposed (Nays): Commissioners Tavares, Botelho Chair Robinsonannounced the motion passed with a vote of six ayes to two nays, appointing Reed Mahuna as temporary chief effective September 1st. Commissioner Tavares clarified that his vote was a matter of process and transparency, not a reflection on the appointee. DeputyChief Mahuna thanked the commission for itssupport. The chair concluded that the commission will now focus entirely on the selection of a permanent chief, with a presentation from Human Resources scheduled for the next meeting. NEW BUSINESS Selection and Appointment of Permanent Chief of Police: Chair Robinson announced that the selection process for the permanent chiefwill be on nd the agenda for the next meeting on August 22. He confirmed that a representative from Human Resources will be present. Commissioners were instructed to review the job description from the previous selection process, which had been sent to them, and to come to the next meeting prepared to discuss any proposed changes. EXECUTIVE SESSION(CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC) Commissioner Tavaresmotioned to meet inexecutive 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 byVice Chair Bertsch,with no discussion, it carried unanimously. Executive session convened at 12:46p.m. Motion to reconvene open session made by Vice Chair Bertsch, seconded by Commissioner Tavares,with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. The regular session reconvened at 3:08p.m. Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 12 ACTION ON EXECUTIVE SESSION MATTERS Investigation of complaints: o HPC 25-23:The complainant alleges officers have not responded to her repeated calls, no follow-up was conducted, and expresses dissatisfaction with how her case was investigated.Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion to defer this to the next available meeting, so parties could attend.Seconded by Commissioner Lacerte, with no discussion, and it carried unanimously. o HPC 25-28A, 25-28B, and 25-28C:Complainant alleges the unlawful removal of children and unauthorized entry into a residence. Additional allegations include retaliation and misuse of departmental access. HPC 25-28A: Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion that there was insufficient evidence. Seconded by Commissioner Yamada, with no discussion,it carried unanimously. HPC 25-28B: Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion that there was sufficient evidence to refer to the chief for further investigation. Seconded by Commissioner Botelho, with no discussion, it carried unanimously. HPC 25-28C: Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion that there was sufficient evidence to refer to the chief for further investigation. Seconded by Commissioner Botelho, with no discussion, it carried unanimously. o HPC 25-29A and 25-29B:Complainant alleges the unlawful removal of children and unauthorized entry into a residence. Additional allegations include retaliation and misuse of departmental access. HPC 25-29A:Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion that there was insufficient evidence. Seconded by Commissioner Botelho,with no discussion, it carried unanimously. HPC 25-29B:Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion that there was sufficient evidence to refer to the chief for further investigation. Seconded by Commissioner Tavares, with no discussion, it carried unanimously. o HPC 25-30A and 25-30B:Complainant alleges the unlawful removal of children from her custody, unauthorized entry into her residence, and failure by officers to prevent unauthorized removal of property. HPC 25-30A:Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion that there was insufficient evidence. Seconded by Commissioner Botelho,with no discussion, it carried unanimously. Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 13 HPC 25-30B:Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion that there wassufficient evidenceto refer to the chief for further investigation. Seconded by Commissioner Botelho,with no discussion, it carried unanimously. Request for reconsideration: o HPC 25-15, 25-16, 25-17:Regarding the complaint, Chair Robinson noted that the commission had previously found insufficient evidence,but the complainant requested reconsideration, feeling they did not have an opportunity to present their case. Vice Chair Bertsch made a motion to accept the request for reconsideration, which was seconded by Commissioner Lacerte. With no discussion, the motion carried unanimously, and reconsideration was granted. Complaints in the non-acceptance category: o HPC 25-30C: Motionwas made by Commissioner Tavares and seconded by Commissioner Buckman to sustain the chair’s decision to decline the complaint under Rule 6(c)(1). Vice Chair Bertsch voiced opposition, statinghe felt the timing was off as it had just been discovered that a report was not filed. The motion passed, with all in favor except for Vice Chair Bertsch. o HPC 25-27: A motion was made by Vice Chair Bertsch and seconded by Commissioner Tavares to sustain the chair's decision to decline a complaint under Rule 6(c)(4). The motion carried unanimously without discussion. AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING Chair Robinson confirmed that the next meeting will include a presentation from Human Resources on the selection process for the permanent chief. Commissioner Tavares requested a future presentation on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to clarify the powers and authority of the commission and the police chief. The commission discussed the request, with members agreeing on the need for clarification. It was suggested that the Police Departmentor Corporation Counsel could provide a presentation. Counsel affirmed that advising the chief on police-community relations falls within the commission's purview. The commission then discussed the best way to proceed, considering options such as adding it to the chief's report or forming a permitted interaction group for research. ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Robinson announced the next meeting is scheduled for Friday, August 22,2025, at 9:00 a.m. at the County Building, Council Chambers, Suite 1401, 25 Aupuni St., Hilo. ADJOURNMENT A motion to adjourn was made by Vice Chair Bertsch and seconded by Commissioner Tavares. The motion passed unanimously, and the meeting adjourned at 3:41 p.m. Regular Session Minutes July 18, 2025 Page 14 SUBMITTED BY:CHARISSE CORREA, SECRETARY APPROVED BY:RICK ROBINSON, CHAIR