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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-04-16 KPD NR Statement regarding disciplinary action involving Chief of PoliceDEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR MICHAEL A. DAHILIG, MANAGING DIRECTOR News Release For Immediate Release: April 16, 2021 COUNTY OF KAUA‘I KAUA‘I POLICE DEPARTMENT TODD G. RAYBUCK, CHIEF (808) 241-1600 Statement regarding disciplinary action involving Chief of Police LĪHU‘E – On September 8, 2020, the Kauaʿi Police Commission received a complaint made against the Chief of Police from an employee of the Kauaʿi Police Department, and determined an investigation was warranted. The complaint alleged the Chief of Police did not promote an employee based upon the employee’s ancestry, race, or national origin; the promotional process violated civil service laws; and the Chief of Police violated the County Policy Against Discrimination. The County of Kauaʿi Department of Human Resources conducted the investigation into the allegations against the Chief of Police. The Department of Human Resources’ investigation concluded there was no evidence to support that the Chief of Police failed to promote the employee based upon the employee’s ancestry, race, or national origin, and that the promotional selection was, “fair, objective,” and did not violate civil service laws or rules. The Department of Human Resources’ investigation also concluded that comments related to a protected class made in the workplace on November 13, 2019, and July 29, 2020, by the Chief of Police, did violate the County Policy Against Discrimination. The Kauaʿi Police Commission has issued the Chief of Police a five-day unpaid suspension (April 26-30) for violating the County Policy. In addition, the Chief of Police will complete Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Cultural Sensitivity Training. “I value and appreciate diversity in the workplace and within the community. I accept responsibility for my comments and will continue to use this experience to expand my cultural awareness and increase my knowledge and understanding of different cultures,” said Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck. “I am deeply humbled by the support I have received and appreciate the grace I have been given. Moving forward I am even more committed to serving this great community and doing the work necessary to maintain the confidence of the Police Commission and the employees of the Kauaʿi Police Department.” ###