High Marks for Honolulu Police Chief Despite Controversy
HPD Chief Louis Kealoha is embroiled in several high profile incidents involving misconduct within his department, yet the Honolulu Police Commission says he “exceeds expectations.”
It might not seem like 2014 was a good year for Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, but don’t tell police commissioners that.
On Tuesday, the Honolulu Police Commission said Kealoha “exceeds expectations” when it comes to running his department. It’s the third year in a row it’s given such a complimentary evaluation.
According to a one-page press release, Kealoha “succeeded in ensuring public safety while effectively addressing controversial issues.”
HPD Chief Louis Kealoha has again received high marks from the Honolulu Police Commission.
Cory Lum/Civil Beat
Kealoha has been under fire for several months now. His department has been criticized for its lax enforcement of domestic violence, especially when it involves one of its own officers.
There are also pending FBI inquiries into the department. In one case an officer was caught on tape attacking a witness in a Chinatown game room. The other involves the chief’s stolen mailbox and allegations that Kealoha and his wife framed her uncle for the theft.
State lawmakers have called for action, even asking the commission to appoint co-chiefs to help Kealoha run the department. They have also introduced several bills to improve police accountability.
Throughout it all, the Police Commission has stood firm behind Kealoha. Chairman Ron Taketa reiterated that stance Tuesday.
“The commissioners remain confident in Chief Kealoha’s character and abilities as he continues to lead HPD in the challenging environment of modern law enforcement,” he said.
Read Kealoha’s evaluation here:
