KOHALA COAST, Hawai‘i – November 15, 2024 – South Kohala Patrol Officer Severo Ines Jr. was recognized as the Officer of the Quarter for the third quarter of 2024 by the Hawai‘i Island Safety and Security Professionals Association (HISSPA). The ceremony took place on Friday, November 15, at a Kohala Coast resort.

Officer Ines was celebrated for his dedicated work enforcing traffic regulations on Hawai‘i Island, particularly for his proactive stance against excessive speeding. In the past year, Officer Ines issued hundreds of speeding citations and arrested 18 drivers for excessive speeding, defined as traveling more than 30 miles per hour over the speed limit. Among these arrests, 12 involved motorists driving at or above 100 miles per hour, with one driver clocked at an astonishing 134 miles per hour.

His efforts are widely seen as a critical step in ensuring the safety of the public. “We applaud Officer Ines in his dedication to roadway safety,” said Captain Roylen Valera.

This recognition comes as a reminder for all motorists to be mindful of their speed, especially with the busy holiday season approaching. “We would like to remind all motorists to plan accordingly with sufficient time for travel, especially during the holiday season, when people are busy doing errands, shopping, attending festive gatherings, and visiting family and friends,” Captain Valera added. “Roadway safety is everyone’s responsibility.”

Officer Ines’s exemplary actions continue to contribute to the safety of Hawai‘i Island’s roads, ensuring a safer environment for both residents and visitors alike.