Kona, Hawaiʻi – Officer Joshua “Kaipo” Stender of the Hawaiʻi Police Department has been recognized by the Kona Crime Prevention Committee (KCPC) as its Officer of the Month for June 2025. He was honored for his quick thinking, composure, and compassion during a violent assault investigation in Kona.
On April 24, 2025, Officer Stender responded to a harrowing report of a 75-year-old woman attacked with a knife by a nude male suspect. Upon arriving in the area, Officer Stender quickly located and safely detained the suspect, who appeared to be in a state of mental health crisis, showcasing his ability to manage a volatile situation with calm authority.
He then entered the victim’s residence, where he found the injured woman suffering from a serious laceration. Officer Stender immediately summoned medical aid, secured the scene, and conducted a thorough investigation. His work revealed that the suspect had forced entry, armed himself with a knife, and assaulted both the victim and her granddaughter before fleeing. Thanks to Officer Stender’s decisive actions, the suspect was arrested and subsequently charged with burglary, assault, and other felony offenses.
The KCPC stated that Officer Stender’s empathy, professionalism, and dedication to protecting the community embody the highest standards of law enforcement. Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz commended Officer Stender, along with two other officers, for their outstanding work and commitment to serving Hawaiʻi Island with honor and integrity.