Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha told reporters Tuesday that he sent an alleged domestic violence case involving one of his officers to the prosecutor’s office, although charges have yet to be filed.
The announcement came after Kealoha met with a several women legislators who have publicly criticized the Honolulu Police Department for its handling of domestic violence investigations.
Kealoha had cancelled a previous meeting, to the disappointment of those lawmakers.
Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, middle, says he will review the department’s approach to providing public information.
PF Bentley/Civil Beat
The chief has come under fire for how the Honolulu Police Department has handled its investigation into Sgt. Darren Cachola, who was caught on surveillance video repeatedly striking his girlfriend inside a Waipahu restaurant.
Questions have also been raised about the responding officers, as Cachola was not arrested and no reports were filed directly following the incident. Both Cachola and another officer have been placed on desk duty as the HPD conducts an internal investigation.
Kealoha also addressed the lack of transparency surrounding his department, saying that reforms could be on the horizon.
“When you lose trust and confidence in (the police department), it’s because we are not sharing enough info, so we are going back to the drawing table and looking to improve and provide more info to the community,” he said.
You can catch the full report from Civil Beat media partner KITV here.
GET IN-DEPTH
REPORTING ON HAWAII’S BIGGEST ISSUES
Help power essential news and information
As a local newsroom, Civil Beat has a unique public service role in times of need. Your support ensures that we can pivot when emergencies arise and get vital information out to everyone, from all communities.
Support timely and accurate breaking news stories as well as impactful coverage across the state. Donate today.
About the Author
-
Nick Grube is a reporter for Civil Beat. You can reach him by email at nick@civilbeat.org or follow him on Twitter at @nickgrube. You can also reach him by phone at 808-377-0246.