MEDIA RELEASE

The Hawaiʻi Island Safety and Security Professionals Association recognized Officer Thomas Koyanagi as “Kohala Officer of the Quarter” for October-December 2015 during a ceremony on February 12.

The Hawaiʻi Island Safety and Security Professionals Association recognized Officer Thomas Koyanagi as “Kohala Officer of the Quarter” for October-December 2015 during a ceremony on February 12.

Koyanagi, a 14-year veteran of the Police Department, who is assigned to the South Kohala District, was honored for arresting a convicted felon who was in possession of two firearms and ammunition.

On October 9, 2015, just after midnight, Koyanagi observed a suspicious van parked near a restaurant while he was on route to a report of a loud party. When he returned to the vehicle, a man was inside. While another officer was making contact with the man, Koyanagi observed the end of a rifle barrel hidden under the man’s jacket. He immediately warned the other officer about the weapon, instructed the suspect to exit the van and arrested him.

During the investigation, Koyanagi recovered a rifle, a semi-automatic pistol and ammunition, and he determined that the suspect was a convicted felon who was prohibited from possessing firearms. The arrest led to seven charges and $51,000 bail.

Sergeant Calvin Delaries, who nominated Koyanagi for the honor, said his proactive Community Policing techniques and his decisive actions during the above incident have made Waimea a safer place to live, visit and conduct business.

The Hawaiʻi Island Safety and Security Professionals Association is an organization of hotel and airport security managers and visitor industry professionals. Its “Kohala Officer of the Quarter” program is an opportunity to recognize outstanding officers from the North Kohala and South Kohala Districts.