The Hawaii Police Department’s held its 93rd recruit class recognition ceremony on Feb. 12 at the Public Safety Building in Hilo.
In accordance with current social distancing restrictions, this was a private ceremony limited to only police personnel and guest speakers. Friends, family, and members of the public were able to view the ceremony live by visiting the Hawaii Police Department’s Facebook page.
The class began training on Aug. 17 with 24 recruits from as far away as Germany, the Philippines, Canada, Guam, New Jersey, Virginia, Oklahoma, Kansas, Molokai, and the Big Island. They came from a variety of backgrounds and previous career paths, including retail, restaurant and hospitality industries, while others had been a teacher, bus driver, auto mechanic and park ranger.
After six months of intensive training, 22 recruits graduated.
Class Officers include: Michael Gusman, president; Stephen Pangle, vice president; Jason Lin, secretary; and Jade Thomas, treasurer.
Other members of the class are: David Brunner, Dallas Arce, John Harvey, Ridge Quitoriano, Sean Tyler Kepoo, Taylor Cruz, Margot Babauta, Rommel Constantino, Nevin Morales, Christian Madera, Mara Gaertner, Jared Tatsuno, Scott Hammons, Tyler Tayamen, Dansen Cabinatan, Ryan Pagdilao, Xylon Takata and Jessie Welch.
The Academic Award was awarded to Gusman, who attained the highest grade-point average on weekly and certification examinations. Constantino was presented with the Firearms Award for attaining the highest rating in firearms proficiency. They will have their names engraved on a perpetual plaque, which is displayed in the department’s training room.
Tyler Kepoo was recognized with the Physical Fitness Award for her level of physical conditioning.
Cruz received the Overall Outstanding Recruit Award for his motivational and leadership qualities.
Our newly graduated officers will now undergo 4 months of on-the-job field training with veteran police officers before they are qualified to work alone.