Officers’ prior misconduct is often used against them — and ultimately the taxpayers — in civil lawsuits that arise from unrelated incidents that happen many years later.
The Police Files
We’re examining myriad aspects of police practices and policies throughout Hawaii, including officer-involved shootings, police misconduct, union influence and police reform efforts.
Posted inThe Police Files
Hawaii Supreme Court: The Public Has A ‘Compelling’ Interest In Knowing About Police Misconduct
The decision upholds the release of public records in a Civil Beat lawsuit that sought the arbitration file of Sgt. Darren Cachola.
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How The Hawaii Supreme Court Has Shaped Policing In The State
Recent rulings have built on decades of precedent in Hawaii that protects individuals from unreasonable government intrusions.
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Cockfights And Corruption: How Police Arbitration Kept This Cop On The Job
In Hawaii, arbitrators look to previous decisions in order to be fair, no matter how serious the misconduct or whether it’s even similar.
Posted inThe Police Files
The Brady List: Why Police Are Supposed To Tell Prosecutors About Dishonest Cops
The U.S. Supreme Court says the accused has a right to know about officers who have credibility issues. But Honolulu defense attorneys say they’re often left in the dark.
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Other States Have Tough Police Standards Boards. Hawaii’s Is Still Struggling
Almost every other state has professional staff and funding dedicated to overseeing law enforcement. Hawaii has neither.
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Proposals Seek Stronger Oversight Of Police On Maui
The Maui Charter Commission and the Maui Police Commission are both looking at ways to provide better accountability for police on the island.
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Blangiardi Has Chosen A Third Police Commission Nominee But He’s Not Revealing Who It Is
The mayor said he’s not interested in the kind of police reform activists have been demanding.
Posted inThe Police Files
Amid Scrutiny Of HPD’s Fatal Shooting Of Teenager, Police Union Defends Officers
Police union officials offered a message of vindication while the city prosecutor has yet to deem the shooting of a 16-year-old justified.