Kona, Hawaiʻi – For his exemplary perseverance, determination, and investigative skills, South Kohala Patrol Officer Kelena Kealoha was honored as the Officer of the Quarter for the first quarter of 2025 by the Hawaiʻi Island Safety and Security Professionals Association (HISSPA). The recognition took place at a ceremony held in Kona on Friday, June 20, 2025.
HISSPA is an organization that recognizes law enforcement personnel for their significant contributions to safety and security on Hawaiʻi Island, often highlighting outstanding performance, investigative prowess, and dedication to duty. Officer Kealoha’s recent commendation underscores his proactive approach to policing.
On February 28, 2025, Officer Kealoha responded to a trespassing report at a residence, where the victim reported stolen and damaged items from their garage. Demonstrating keen investigative instincts, Officer Kealoha swiftly conducted a preliminary investigation, obtaining a description of the suspect. Recognizing the urgency, he immediately launched a search, successfully locating and arresting the individual.
The following day, March 1, 2025, Officer Kealoha received another report, this time concerning a theft from within a vehicle. Based on the proximity of the two incidents and their timeframe, Officer Kealoha suspected that the same individual he had just arrested might be responsible for both crimes.
Going beyond the typical scope of patrol duties, Officer Kealoha meticulously obtained and executed a search warrant. The evidence recovered directly linked his arrestee to both cases, providing crucial information for prosecution. After conferring with the Hawaiʻi County Prosecutor’s Office, the suspect was charged with numerous offenses, including:
- Burglary in the second degree
- Criminal tampering in the second degree
- Two counts of unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle in the second degree
- Criminal property damage in the second degree
- Criminal property damage in the fourth degree
- Three counts of theft in the second degree
- Two counts of theft in the fourth degree
Bail for the suspect was set at $27,400. Additionally, three other offenses were generated and referred to the Hawaiʻi County Prosecutor’s Office.
Sergeant Anson Caceres, who nominated Officer Kealoha for the award, praised his exceptional performance. “Since transferring from Kona Patrol to South Kohala Patrol, Officer Kealoha has gone above and beyond the expectations of his position on several occasions to investigate, arrest, and charge suspects,” said Sergeant Caceres. “His commitment to duty makes Hawaiʻi Island a safe place to live, visit, and conduct business.”