HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022 07-29 PC APPROVED Open Session minutes.pdf COUNTY OF KAUAI
OPEN SESSION MINUTES MEETING
Board/Commission Kauai Police Commission Meeting Date July 29, 2022
Location Moikeha Building, Meeting Room 2A/2B Start of Meeting: 9:01 a.m. 2:45 p.m.
Present Chair Gerald Bahouth; Commissioners: Monica Belz, Andrew Bestwick and Roy Morita. Also present: Board & Commissions Office
Staff: Support Clerk Mercedes Omo; Administrator Ellen Ching; Office of the County Attorney: Deputy County Attorney Chris
Donahoe. Kauai Police Department: Chief of Police Todd Raybuck, Deputy Chief of Police Stan Olsen;
Excused Vice Chair Leina`ala Jardin
Testifiers Detective Brian Silva, Lieutenant Christopher Calio, Domestic Violence Coordinator Gina Kaulukukui, Detective Aaron Lester , and
Councilmember Billy Decosta.
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
Meeting Called
to Order
At 9:01 a.m., Chair Bahouth
called the July 29, 2022,
Police Commission meeting
to order.
Roll Call to
Ascertain
Quorum
Chair Bahouth called for a roll call to ascertain quorum.
After a quorum was ascertained, Chair Bahouth called on Deputy County Attorney Chris
Donahoe to read the public decorum for oral testimony.
Deputy County Attorney Donahoe read public decorum for oral testimony.
Mahalo to all public participants who are attending in -person, or virtually on Zoom. Your
presence and participation are valuable to the Commission during our decision -making
process. Please be reminded that in the spirit of aloha, respectful communication and proper
decorum are necessary to maintain orderly, efficient, and productive administration of the
meeting. Public statements or remarks of aggression or threats of violence will not be
considered respectful communication that will further the Commission’s significant interest to
conduct an orderly, efficient, and productive meeting. Please note that pursuant to HRS § 92-
A call ensued with
Commissioners Monica
Belz, Andrew Bestwick, Roy
Morita, and Chair Bahouth
present to conduct
business.
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3 any person, or persons, who “willfully disrupt a meeting to prevent and compromise the
conduct of the meeting” may be removed from the meeting. Regarding public testimony the
public is encouraged to testify and express their views at our meetings. Pursuant to HRS § 92 -
3, all interested persons can submit data, views, and arguments in writings, remotely, or by
way of oral testimony as it relates to any agenda item. Hawai‘i Revised Statutes Chapter 92
authorizes the Police Commission to establish parameters to conduct an orderly, efficient, and
productive meeting. Public testimony time is reserved for those wishing to testify on agenda
items. Testimony on any agenda item by each speaker will be limited to three minutes.
Conducting an orderly, efficient, and productive meeting ensures that the Commission can
discuss everything on the agenda. Many agenda items are time-sensitive and necessary to
ensure that the County continues to function. If you wish to testify or express your views on
items not on our agenda, there are other ways to communicate this information by the way of
writing a letter via regular mail or by email. For audio recording purposes, when speaking into
the microphone, please speak directly as you can so the recording can pick-up the testimony
accordingly.
Chair Bahouth clarified that any person who wanted to testify will need to state their full
name and identify the agenda item they are testifying on.
Announcements Next Regular Monthly Meeting 9:00 a.m. Friday, August 26, 2022, in the Moikeha Meeting
Room2A/2B. Executive Session to follow. Subject to change.
Public Testimony
on any of the
items listed on
the agenda
Chair Bahouth called for public on any of the items listed on the agenda. Being that there
were no testifiers, Chair Bahouth moved on to the Employee of the Month for June 2022.
Employee of the
Month for June
2022
Chair Bahouth called on Police Chief Todd Raybuck to address the Employee of the Month for
June 2022.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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Chief Raybuck called on Lieutenant A.J. Morita to read the Commendation Report for June
2022 Employee of the Month Sergeant Stacey Perriera.
Lt. Anthony Morita acknowledged Police Chief Todd Raybuck and the Police Commissioners
and thanked them for giving him the opportunity to read the commendation for Sergeant
Perriera.
Lt. Morita stated that Sgt. Perreira is assigned to the Kauai Police Department’s
communication center and is instrumental in assisting the records section with various
curriculum assignments in addition to her normal supervisory duties and heavy workload.
Although Sgt. Perreira is laden with her own work she never wavers when it comes to helping
others especially the administrative and technical bureau, she created an online firearm gun
registration application process and because of her work ethics it was completed in a timely
manner.
Chief Raybuck congratulated Sgt. Perreira for her outstanding work ethics and presented her
with a certificate of exemplary service. He stated that Sgt. Perreira is the backbone of the
Department and because of her skills and expertise she oversees the Spillman Records
Management System and the Spillman CAD for police dispatch. He pointed out that Sgt.
Perreira is an innovative thinker who is always looking for ways on how to equip and
invigorate the Department with solutions and software to provide better service to the
community and to her fellow police officers.
Sgt. Perreira took a moment to thank Lt. A.J. Morita for the nomination. She humbly stated
that she did not expect to be nominated for something that she loves to do every day. She
shared that one of the reasons she went to back school was to get her master’s degree in
communications and computer science so that she could help the Department get to where it
needs to be in terms of technology.
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All four (4) Commissioner to the opportunity to congratulate Sgt. Perreira individually for a job
well done and for her unwavering dedication and committed to her work and to the
community.
Employee of the
Month for July
Chair Bahouth called for public testimony, seeing th ere were no testifiers, he called on
Police Chief Todd Raybuck to address the Employee of the Month for July 2022.
Chief Raybuck called on Lieutenant Kennison Nagahisa to read the Commendation Report for
Employee of the Month for July 2022, Sergeant Aaron Lester.
Investigative Bureau Special Focus Section/ Commander of KPD’s Crisis Negotiation Team, Lt.
Nagahisa began by acknowledging Chair Bahouth, members of the Police Commission and
Police Chief Todd Raybuck.
During the early morning hours of July 8, 2022, a 61-year-old male forced his way into his 65-
year-old ex-girlfriend apartment. The male suspect prevented the female from leaving her
apartment and threaten to kill her and himself if she left. The male suspect assaulted the
female with a bladed weapon, fortunately, the female victim was able to escape her
apartment and went to seek help. The officers who answered the call transported the female
victim to Wilcox Hospital for treatment. The officers who remained on the scene was told
that a male suspect had locked himself in the victim’s apartment and was armed with a
bladed weapon. During the negotiations the male suspect began to verbally threaten the
officers with bodily harm if they came into the apartment hoping to get the officers to would
use deadly force known as suicide by a cop.
KPD’s Special Response and Crisis Negotiation Teams were also called in to assist. After 5
hours of negotiations the male suspect finally surrendered and was taken into custody
without further incident. The professionalism and teamwork of all those involved to help
make volatile situation to end peacefully. He pointed that although it was a team effort one
officer performance stood out that officer was Sergeant Aaron Lester.
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As KPD’s a senior negotiator he was able to effectively communicate, and form repour with
the male suspect who suffers from mental issues.
Lt. Nagahisa commended Sgt. Lester for an outstanding job and stated that it was an honor for
him to be able to recognize him as the Employee of the Month for July 2022.
Sergeant Lester stated that he appreciated all of the accolades, but this was the third time
KPD’s Negotiation Team had to negotiate with the male suspect. He acknowledged Detective
Brian Silva for being there for the first two incidents of which one of those incidents took
more than 8 hours to complete and Officer Cabrera for being there for the third incident.
All four (4) Commissioners took the opportunity to congratulate Sgt. Lester, Detective Brian
Silva, and Officer Cabrera for job well done.
Prior to presenting Sgt. Lester with a certificate of exemplary service, Police Chief Raybuck
congratulated the entire Crisis Negotiation Team for a job well done. He shared that
nationally those types of negotiations often do not end peacefully, and lives are torn and
shattered. But because of the dedication and commitment of Sgt. Lester, Detective Silva, and
the entire Crisis Negotiation Team what was a violate situation ended peacefully.
Approval of
Agenda
Chair Bahouth called for a motion to approve the agenda. Commissioner Morita
moved. Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
agenda was approved.
Approval of Open
Session Minutes
of May 27, 2022,
Meeting
Chair Bahouth called for public testimony, seeing there were no testifiers, he called for a
motion approve the open session minutes of the May 27, 2022, meeting.
Commissioner Belz moved
to approve the open session
minutes of May 27, 2022,
meeting. Commissioner
Bestwick seconded the
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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motion. Hearing no
objections, the minutes
were approved.
Chief’s Monthly
Bureau Reports
and Pertinent
Updates/
Announcements
Chair Bahouth called for public testimony, seeing there was none, he called on Police Chief
Todd Raybuck to address the Chief’s Monthly Bureau Reports.
• Administrative and Technical Bureau
• Investigative Services Bureau
• Patrol Bureau
• Chief’s Office
✓ Community Outreach
Chief Raybuck asked the Commissioners of they had any questions on any of the data
reflected in the Chief’s Monthly Reports.
Police Chief Raybuck, in response to Chair Bahouth’s questioning, responded that the asset
forfeiture funds are monies that have been seized and are held in a separate account aside
from the county’s general fund. Those funds are used to conduct trainings, purchase
equipment and any unused funds will remain in the account for future use. To his recollection
none of those funds have been tapped into for at least three years and if KPD did use those
funds, it was used in small increments.
Police Chief Raybuck, in response to Chair Bahouth’s questioning, responded that based on
the United States Supreme Court ruling which specifically mentioned that Hawai‘i violated the
second amendment in the case of USR&PA v. Bruen. The Bruen decision nullified the
exceptional case requirement that chiefs of police should no longer require that an applicant
show an exceptional case, where an applicant would have to show reason for fear of injury to
the applicant’s person or property to obtain a concealed carry license.
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He further explained that because of the Bruen decision the Kauai Police Department has
seen an uptick in inquiries from the community who have drawn requests for a permit and
KPD’s response was that the county attorney’s office is working diligently with the attorney
general’s office to come up with a system that is compliant with the Bruen decision.
Chief Raybuck stated that all four police chiefs across the state have been meeting frequently
to come up with a plan that is also consistent with the Bruen decision. He noted that because
of Sergeant Perreira’s hard work and dedication KPD’s new an online firearm registration is
now two weeks in and once completed members of the community will be able to go online
to register to obtain a permit to acquire a firearm. The backside to that is the education
component, KPD is working with its counterparts to develop a training program to train police
officers on how to interact with individuals who may be illegally carrying a firearm, in a
manner that will ensure the officer’s safety and protect to the constitutional rights of the
individual.
With further no questions, Chief Raybuck moved on to his community outreach events
highlighting a short video capturing the Touch a Truck Event that was recently held and the
upcoming “Coffee with a Cop” event which will be held at the Waimea Plantation Cottages on
August 20, 2022.
Chief Raybuck also took the time to express his heartfelt appreciation for Deputy Chief Olsen
who is resigning at the end of August. He stated that Deputy Chief Olsen’s abundance of
knowledge and experience brought value to the Kauai Police Department and that he will be
forever grateful for all of his support and that he will be greatly missed.
Commissioner Morita thanked Deputy Chief Olsen for everything he has done for the Kauai
Police Department, noting that he hopes that the next person to fill the deputy’s position will
be someone from within the Department.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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Chair Bahouth expressed his appreciation for Deputy Chief Olsen. He stated that his
commitment over the past year and the sacrifices he made to come to Kauai to serve as the
Deputy Chief is commendable, and although he is leaving to go back to the mainland, he
wants to reassure him that he and his family will always have a home here on Kauai.
Chief Raybuck, in response to Commissioner Bestwick questioning, Chief Raybuck responded
that Johnette Chun from the Chief’s Office put out a display table at the Touch a Truck event
of all KPD’s job openings, and it worked because she actively recruited four members from
community. As far as KPD using the event as an opportunity to recruit people in the future,
Chief Raybuck stated that being that it was KPD’s first event their recruitment approach was
passive.
Councilmember Billy Decosta commended Sergeant Aaron Lester and Sergeant Stacey
Perriera for all of their hard work and accomplishments. In response to the Sergeant Lester’s
use of the word “team” Councilman Decosta stated that every officer who is sitting in the
room including Chief Raybuck, and the Police Commission are all on the same team. He then
commended Sgt. Perreira for going back to school to earn a master’s degree. In response to
Commissioner Morita’s comment about having someone from within KPD be the next deputy
chief, Councilman Decosta stated that he will advocate for it.
With no further comments, Chair Bahouth moved on to item KPC 2022 -2.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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Business
KPC 2022-2
Presentation by the permitted interaction group on recommendations on the process,
procedures, and tools to enhance the chief of police evaluation resulting in a more cohesive
evaluation product. Deferred on May 27, 2022.
Chair Bahouth called on Boards and Commissions Administrator Ellen Ching to read item KPC
2022-2, after which she called for public testimony. There was none.
Ms. Ching, in response to Commissioner Morita’s questioning, responded that because of
Human Resources heavy workload members of the permitted interaction group did not have
the chance to meet therefore she will be asking Chair Bahouth if he could entertain a motion
to defer item KPC 2022-2.
Chair Bahouth acknowledged Administrator Ching’s request and called for a motion to defer
item KPC 2022-2.
Commissioner Morita
moved. Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, a roll
call vote ensued, the
motion to defer item KPC
2022-2 carried 4:0.
KPC 2022-12 Communication dated June 30, 2022, from Police Chief Todd Raybuck to Chair Gerald
Bahouth, and members of the Kauai Police Commission regarding an update on the progres s
made to the Department’s fiscal year goals through June 30, 2022.
After reading the agenda item, Administrator Ching called for public testimony, seeing there
was no testifiers, she called on Police Chief Raybuck to address the Department’s fiscal year
goals.
Chief Raybuck stated that the sets the goals but it’s the men and women in the Kauai Police
Department who does the work. He noted that at the time of writing the Administrative and
Technical Bureau Report, he estimated returning about a million dollars in overtime funds, but
because of the current circumstances he now anticipates that by the end of fiscal year 2021-
2022, the Department will be returning anywhere from $300,000 to $500,000.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
Chief Raybuck in response to Commissioner Morita’s questioning, responded that all covid
expenses have been paid for and that none of monies to cover those expenses came from the
Police Department’s budget.
At this point, Chair Bahouth sought a motion to receive item KPC 2022-12, for the record.
Chief Raybuck, in response to Commissioner Bestwick questioning, responded that the
Cordico Wellness App was designed with public safety in mind by mental health professionals
in coordination with various health care providers and law enforcement agencies. Their goal
was to develop an app where people could download it on their personal phone and have 24-
hour access to a wide range of healthcare and wellness resources. He added that the system
also provides a way for passive individuals to actively engage in it.
Commissioner Bestwick
moved. Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, item
KPC 2022-12, was received
for the record.
KPC 2022-13 Discussion and decision-making on revision to Rule 11 of the Police Commission
Administrative Rules of Practice and Procedure.
After reading the item, Administrator Ching called for public testimony. Seeing there were no
testifiers she called on Deputy County Attorney Chris Donahoe to address item KPC 2022-13.
Deputy County Attorney Donahoe briefed the Commissioners on where he is at in reviewing
the language in Rule 11. He noted that while doing research he found some issues and that
he his counterparts are working on standardizing the language for all police commissions
across the state but until their work is completed, he would like to request that the item be
deferred. With no further comments, Chair Bahouth called for a motion to defer item KPC
2022-13.
Commissioner Morita
moved to defer item KPC
2022-13. Commissioner
Bestwick seconded the
motion. Hearing no
objections, the motion
carried.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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KPC 2022-14 Letter dated June 15, 2022, from SHOPO Business Agent Roy Asher, Kauai district, to Chair
Gerald Bahouth and members of the Police Commission regarding comments that were made
by commissioners in Chief Raybuck’s evaluation for the period of April 19, 2019to April 22,
2020.
After reading the item, Administrator Ching called for public testimony. Seeing there were no
testifiers. Commissioner Morita mentioned that being that Mr. Asher was not in the audience,
he would like to defer the item to the next meeting. Chair Bahouth called for a motion to
defer item KPC 2022-14 to the Commission’s next meeting.
Commissioner Morita
moved. Commissioner
Bestwick seconded the
motion. Item KPC 2022-14
was deferred to the
Commission’s August
meeting.
KPC 2022-15 Testimony by Detective Brian Silva on morale, standards of conduct, retention, staffing issues,
management on the safety of the community and the well-being of the officers in the Kauai
Police Department.
After reading the item, Administrator Ching called for public testimony and then explained the
oral testimony guidelines.
Detective/Sergeant Brian Silva testified that he is assigned to Investigative Services Bureau
and that he has been with the Kauai Police Department for 21 years, prior to that he served
four (4) years in the United States Marine Corp. He thanked Boards and Commissions staff for
assisting him in getting his item on the agenda and the Commissioners for their willingness to
serve on the Police Commission as volunteers to ensure that the police department runs
efficiently so that the Kauai residents and visitors are safe from criminal activities such as
death, assaults, and illegal drugs which unfortunately is the cause of losing some of Kauai
residents. Kauai is unique and small, where everyone knows one another and when someone
is a victim of a crime or overdose because of illegal drugs running rapid throughout the island
it effects everyone.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
He testified that he would like to be on record that he is testifying to address the Police
Commission on sensitive matters linked directly to public safety and the security of the Police
Commission under the leadership of Todd Raybuck.
He testified that he understood part of the Police Commission’s authority is to appoint,
discipline and remove the chief of police as well as oversee matters related to goals and aims
of the Kauai Police Department. He testified that the Kauai Police Department’s policy
prevents him from publicly speaking directly on matters that are detrimental to the Chief and
because of the vague interpretation on whether or not his statements would be protected
under the first amendment based on the nature of matters that are related to public safety
and the security of the community.
As such he is requested an open session to ask that he be provided time in executive session
to make those items known to the County of Kauai and the Kauai Police Commission in
accordance with Hawai‘i Revised Statutes 92-1, 92-3, 92-4, 92-5 subsection 6. But because he
is unbale to speak in open session about those matters, in fear of possible retaliation, he
would like to give his remaining testimony time to Chris Calio, SHOPO’s Director-at-Large.
For clarification, Commissioner Morita asked Detective Silva if he was requesting for time in
executive session to which Detective Silva replied yes, sir.
Chair Bahouth referred Deputy Attorney Chris Donahoe to opine on.
Deputy County Attorney Chris Donahoe replied that although Detective Silva is referring to
Hawai‘i Revised Statutes §92-5 (6), based on the Sunshine Law it is unclear to him as to what
specific items he (Silva) wants to bring up in executive session therefore as the Commission’s
legal counsel Detective Silva’s request for executive session time should be denied.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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Administrator Ching advised Chair Bahouth that if the Commissioners had questions, they
would like to consult Deputy County Attorney Donahoe about now would be the time for him
to call for a motion to enter into executive session.
Chair Bahouth asked Ms. Ching if he should wait for the executive session portion of the
agenda before he calls for the motion or should he call for a motion to enter into executive
session now. Administrator Ching started that because there is a testifier waiting to testify on
the item, he should allow the testifier to testify, and he can call for a motion to enter
executive session.
Commissioner Morita asked Detective Silva if the Hawai‘i Revised Statutes he was referring to
came from the Hawai‘i Revised Statutes to which Detective Silva replied yes and that he
believes that the security and safety of the community is part of the reason why he is asking
for an executive session.
Administrator Ching clarified that any additional testimony would have to wait until after the
people who didn’t have a chance to testify has had the opportunity to testify which if course
would be at the Chair’s discretion to allow those who had testified earlier to testify for
additional three minutes.
Chair Bahouth thanked Ms. Ching for clarifying and then asked if there was anyone in the
audience who wished to testify on item KPC 2022-15.
Regina Kaulukukui, also known as Gina, testified that she is a civilian who works in the Kauai
Police Department. She really , really wants to advocate and support what Brian Silva is
sharing today. They need to have a voice; they need to be heard. Sadly, it hasn’t happened in
the Kauai Police Department. There is no place for them to go to let people know what is
truly happening internally. Every single day people in the Police Department say how they
cannot wait or how much time they have left before they can get out of there. Key people,
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corner stones of the organization have walked out. People are being devalued and they need
to have a voice. She thinks it’s so incredibly important. As Councilmember Decosta shared
earlier everyone here is a family, a family of people in uniform. She does not wear a uniform
but the work that she does in domestic violence is incredibly important for the safety of th e
community. We just honored somebody who negotiated with a person for 5 hours on a
domestic violence case for a third time. The work that the civilian workers do is equally
essential to the work those officers do, and they are all partners, but they are not being
recognized as partners by the administration. It’s really sad, it’s sad.
She said that it’s been 4 years (2019), and no one has ever asked her what the stats are, how
many victims they have served and what they do for the community – they don’t ask about
the legality and the unique things about her program. She says that because they lost one of
their most key civilian workers. They had the most unique sex assault SANE Program but was
told that they would never spend money for their programs which makes her she wonders if it
was because of their civilian status. In closing she really, really wants to say that they have
amazing men and women that keeps the community safe, who risks their lives every single
day and they are a team. But the hierarchy between uniform employees and civilians; they’re
up there and we are down here, and we should be here.
She absolutely thinks that those officers and civilians need to have a voice and would like to
encourage the Commission when going into executive session to find a way to make it
possible for them to have a voice. Thank you.
Administrator Ching asked if there was anyone in the audience who wished to testify on item
KPC 2022-15. There was none.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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Executive Session Pursuant to Haw. Rev. Stat. ("H.R.S.") §92-7(a), the Commission may, when deemed
necessary, hold an executive session on any agenda item without written public notice if the
executive session was not anticipated in advance. Any such executive session shall be held
pursuant to H.R.S. §92-4 and shall be limited to those items described in H.R.S. §92-5(a).
Chair Bahouth called for a motion to enter into Executive Session.
At 10:11 a.m. Deputy
County Attorney cited the
Hawai‘i Revised Statutes to
take the meeting into
executive session.
A motion was made by
Commissioner Morita to
convene into Executive
Session for the purpose of
consulting with the
Commission’s attorney on
questions, and issues
concerning item KPC 2022-
15, where issues of privacy
will be discussed may relate
to the Commission’s
powers, duties, privileges,
immunities, and liabilities.
Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion, a roll
call vote ensued, the
motion carried 4:0.
Return to Open
Session
At 10:59 a.m. the Commissioners returned to open session. Chair Bahouth called for a roll call
to ascertain quorum. A roll call ensued with all four Commissioners present to condu ct
business.
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Chair Bahouth stated that he was asked by Commissioner Morita to call for a motion to take
the agenda out of order to allow Lt. Calio to testify on item KPC 2022-16 because he needed
to catch a flight.
Commissioner Morita
moved to take the agenda
out of order and allow Lt.
Chris Calio to testify on item
KPC 2022-16. Commissioner
Belz seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried.
KPC 2022-16 Testimony by Lieutenant Christopher Calio regarding the standards of conduct, retention, and
separations in the Kauai Police Department.
After reading the item, Administrator Ching called for public testimony. Ms. Ching noted that
anyone testifying will be given three-minutes to testify.
Lieutenant Chris Calio of the Kauai Police Department major crime section stated his name for
the record and noted that he is off duty. He acknowledged the Police Commissioners and
Police Chief Todd Raybuck.
He testified that he’s SHOPO’s (State of Hawai‘i Police Officers’ Organization) Director at-Large
and thanked the Commissioners for the opportunity to discuss two major concerns that has
been an issue for many years (even) prior to Chief Raybuck’s tenure. The two subjects are
critical to law enforcement families, the civilian workforce especially the community they
serve.
The union officials have been working very hard negotiating wage increases for the past two
years and has successfully obtained a contract that will increase their minimum wage by
about 21% in the next three years. But he wants the Commission to know that it does not
alleviate the high attrition rate of employees separating from service albeit retiring, taking an
early retirement, quitting, or transferring to another agency. It is not just happening in KPD it
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is happening across the nation. However, he has not seen so many employees in such a short
amount of time separate from service. They even have employees out on medical leave due
to injury on the job and working conditions. The numbers are very alarming, he is not sure if
there is a comprehensive plan that is supported by the Police Commission created by KPD’s
senior staff to alleviate this critical problem. We are losing employees that have extensive
corporate knowledge and skills that took years to develop go to other agencies due to a lack
of (inaudible) and an over amount of workload.
He has spoken to the people who had left, and they all said that they knew he was leaving but
they didn’t talk to him as to why and what they could have done to keep him to avoid losing
him. They don’t care, many of us have loss trust and hope that they are getting better as an
organization, its far more costly and time consuming to recruit new officers and new civilian
workers then it is to retain them. Reducing retention problems could alleviate the need to
recruit. The lack of retention created a huge void in KPD’s operations as they would have to
shift and take sworn personnel to do the work the civilian employees would normally do,
which leaves gaps in critical services in the community. He can go on and on, but he’ll leave it
there.
The second sergeant is critical to KPD’s employees and so is the standard of conduct, he
brought copies with him for the Commissioners to keep and use when reviewing complaints
against KPD’s employees arising from an administrative investigation. The standard of
conduct is not a guideline, it is a standard for employees to conform to at the highest level of
professionalism which starts with the chief and ends with the chief.
The mission statement is clear that we respect and treat each other and everyone we serve
with dignity and respect. If we cannot treat each other, our fellow co-workers, and
subordinates with dignity and respect their attitudes towards work and towards each other
will be reflected upon the community and the service will become less effective and
unprofessional.
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Integrity – maintaining professional ethical standards and starts at the head and ends at the
feet. If we show a disparity in treatment because one of the sworn commits an offense the
public trust is tarnished. Every officer and employee use – the saying goes “one wrong all
wrong”, “ one pays all pay”.
Professionalism – this is one of the most important aspects of being an employee in the Kauai
Police Department. It starts at the very top. If it is witnessed by employee s that the head of
the organization is unprofessional, the trust and confidence is compromised especially if there
is little to no consequences. He is not sure if the Police Commission is aware that as law
enforcement officers’ they get paid 24/7 for standard of conduct which relates to on and off-
duty conduct. It is sad that the civilian employees do not get paid the same but have to abide
by the same standard. To touch on the code of ethics he would be an exemplary model in
obeying the laws and the regulations of his department. He wo uld never act (inaudible) or
permit personal feelings prejudices or hold animosity to toward anyone.
At this juncture, Chair Bahouth notified Mr. Calio that his three-minute limit is up but would
grant him an additional three more minutes.
Mr. Calio testified he would never act atrociously or have friendships influence his decisions
with no compromise. He wants the Commissioners to know when there is no double
standards on how they conduct themselves when it comes to morale, motivation, dedication,
trust, loyalty, and respect because it there was all of that would diminish and the organization
will become weak and ineffective.
As a retired master sergeant in the United States Army, he has done three combat tours,
attended the Hawai‘i Sergeant Major Academy for six years where he took leadership
development courses. From a junior uncommission officer to commissioned officer, he has
the knowledge and experience on what a good leader should look like and should be.
KPC Open Session Minutes
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
He has conducted himself to well and will continue to do so with the highest level of
professionalism. In ending, he stated that if the Commissioners have any questions, he will
prefer addressing their questions in executive session.
Chair Bahouth thanked Lt. Calio for his testimony.
Chief Raybuck asked Chair Bahouth if he could respond to some of the comments that were
made to which Chair Bahouth replied yes.
Chief Raybuck began by thanking Lt. Calio and stated that he appreciates his testimony. He
stated that relative to agenda items KPC 2022-15 and KPC 2022-16 it was hard for him to
know exactly at what point he should respond. Seeing that both items is about retention and
separations (he participated in some of those conversations) want to share with the
Commission what the current sworn, and retention stats are.
Chief Raybuck referred to a copy of KPD Sworn Officer Manpower Review Report which was
distributed to the Commissioners. The Report reflected the Department’s manpower from
2016 through July 2022 of which three years of those years preceded his tenure as Police
Chief and his three years as Police Chief.
Chief Raybuck stated that often opinions form perceptions and perceptions can create false
realities, but the facts are the facts and based stats on the manpower review KPD has 161
authorized sworn positions of which 144 (89.5 %) are currently staffed.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
He pointed out that between 2016 and June 2022 the Police Department hired 70 police
officers of which 52 were hired between 2019 and 2022 which equates to a 74% hire rate, and
44 (63% )of those officers that were hired in 2016 are still employed by KPD.
To date 26 police officers have separated from employment due to termination, separation,
and resignation. In addition to the manpower stats in 2021, the Department re-established
five public safety positions and hired three cellblock workers of which two unfortunately have
resigned for various reasons, one due to the mandatory covid vaccine requirement. To date
KPD has two current candidates who are currently undergoing background checks.
Chief Raybuck pointed out that Page 3 of the Manpower Report reflects a graph of the actual
number of new hires and separations between 2016 to July 2022. Between 2016 and 2018
the new hire average per year was 6.3%. Between 2019 an d2021 the new hires was at 16.3
per year a percentage of 159% increase in new hires over the previous three-year period.
Between 2016 – 2018 timeframe separations was 11.7 versus the current separations at a
slight increase of 13.7. Notably the average number of retirements is 3.8.
Between 2016-2018 the Police Department had a net loss of recruitment and attrition of 17.
Chair Bahouth notified Chief Raybuck that his three minutes were up; however, he will grant
him three more minutes.
Chief Raybuck testified that the Police Department had a net gain of 10. He then turned to
page 4 reflecting data on the Department’s 5-year new hires versus separation trends and on
page 5 it reflects a total 25 retirements between 2017 – 2022.
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
Chief Raybuck stated that the number of people leaving the Department essentially remain
unchanged for the past six years. He noted that everyone has the opportunity to retire and
the majority of the people who left the Department left after serving 25 admirably years or
more of serve. Retirement is what every police officer looks forward to doing.
Chief Raybuck, in response to Deputy County Attorney Donahoe’s questioning , responded
yes, he would like to have KPD’s Manpower Review Report be part of his oral testimony.
Chair Bahouth called for a motion to receive KPD’s Manpower Review Report as part of Chief
Raybuck’s testimony.
Chair Bahouth called for public testimony on item KPC 2022 -16.
Regina Kaulukukui, Domestic Violence Coordinator, testified that what Chief Raybuck’s
handout negates to show is what really is going on internally and that it is not an opinion of
one. They are here today because the Police Commission needs to know that people are
leaving not because they have successfully completed 25 years of service in the Kauai Police
Department. How would they know when there are no post-interviews and there are no
conversations as to how a person is doing and what they need. She can tell the Commission
that since 2019 neither the Chief nor the Deputy Chief has ever stepped into her office to ask
her about stats on domestic violence, what she needs to do to make her job successful and
how she can work collaboratively with her peers.
Those people are my peers and yet, everyday the conversations she is hearing is, I cannot wait
to leave. In a year, and a half she will have 15 years in age and then she can walk out of the
Department, her biggest fear though is the lack of support and that they are going to
eliminate her position because nobody cares.
Commissioner Bestwick
moved. Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried 4:0.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 22
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
That’s what they’re feeling every day, they put their lives on the line every single day and yet
they feel no one gives a damn, those men and women should be applauded for their work
including the civilian workers.
Did he (Chief Raybuck) share that in traffic, for one month there was only one officer working
24 hours a day who had to report to a fatality and who was exhausted.
The Commission is not hearing the effects of those men and women who are putting in time
and the effect it is having on their families, we need to step up and take care of them so that
they last longer then 25 years or in her case 15 years. What we do as a community and as law
enforcement matters, and everyone needs to know that they matter. They need to feel that
25 years is a drop in the bucket because for her she would like to stay 25 more years.
Chair Bahouth thanked Ms. Kaulukukui for her testimony. Chief Raybuck asked Chair Bahouth
if he could ask a question to which Chair Bahouth replied yes.
Chief Raybuck stated that he appreciates the passionate testimonies from Lt. Calio and Ms.
Kaulukukui. He stated that he doesn’t disagree on the need to provide a great working place
and the need to try to retain people and provide the best service KPD can.
He stated that everyone sitting in the meeting room heard testimony from at least three
people concerning morale in the Kauai Police Department and he knows that SHOPO did a
survey on the Maui Police Department and is planning on doing a survey on the Kauai Police
Department which he fully supports because he feels it is important to hear the voices from a
collective police department, not just from those who willing to testify at today’s meeting.
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
He asked Lt. Calio when he anticipates SHOPO putting out the survey in KPD so everyone in
KPD can participate and speak about what their concerns are if he would be able and willing
to meet with him (Chief Raybuck) before he puts out the survey so that collectively they can
craft the questions in a way that would be beneficial for them to work together to help move
the Police Department forward.
Lt. Calio replied that he would basically have to defer his request to SHOPO Chapter Chair
Kennison Nagahisa because as he is SHOPO’s Director-At-Large, and that Lt. Nagahisa is the
person who works directly with the Police Department. As to when the survey would be going
out, he estimates that it would be out in two-weeks, and that he knows for sure that
Lt. Nagahisa will being sitting down with him once the results of survey are in.
Chief Raybuck thanked Lt. Calio. Chair Bahouth asked if there were any members of the
public who wish to give testimony on item KPC 2022-16. Seeing none, Chair Bahouth moved
on to item KPC 2022-17.
Lt. Calio distributed copies of KPD’s Standards of Conduct. Chair Bahouth called for a motion
to accept copies of KPD’s Standards of Conduct from Lt. Calio.
Commissioner Morita
moved. Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried 4:0.
Continuation of
item KPC 2022-15
Administrator Ching read item KPC 2022-15. She asked if there was anyone in the public who
haven’t already testify on item KPC 2022-15, to come forward. There were no testifiers.
Chair Bahouth stated that after consulting with the Commission’s attorney concerning the
Commission’s powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities as it relates to Detective
Silva’s request for an executive session, there may be a possibility, but he would refer the
matter to Deputy County Donahoe to explain what the Commission’s options are.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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Deputy County Attorney Donahoe explained that pursuant to HRS 92, the legislature declared
that it is the policy of the state that the formation and conduct of public policy on discussions,
deliberations, decisions, and the actions of government agencies shall be conducted as openly
as possible. Under HRS 92-1 (3), the provisions provided for exceptions to the open meeting
requirements shall be strictly construed against closed meetings.
He pointed out that the exceptions listed under HRS 92-5 include matters related to public
safety or security. He then referred to a Civil Beat case on public interest versus the City and
County of Honolulu where the courts found that any permitted exceptions to the
intermediate requirement under HRS 92-5 must be narrowly construed and the provisions
provided for exceptions to the open meeting requirements shall be strictly construed against
closed meetings under HRS 92-3, and that not all personnel discussions are exempt from the
open meeting requirements unless it meets that narrowly construed exemption.
He stated that how the agenda item is written and based on the testimonies so far does not
meet the exemption requirement to take place in executive session therefore the remainder
of Detective Silva’s testimony shall take place in open session.
At this juncture, Deputy County Attorney Donahoe called on Chair Bahouth to address some
of the other options if he chooses to explore those options further.
Chair Bahouth explained that he (Silva) can continue his testimony and bring forth the nature
of what he wants to testify on, or he can submit something in writing to the Police
Commission and upon his own review as counsel for the Police Commission he would
determine if it met the executive session requirement.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
Referring to Hawai‘i Revised Statutes subsection six (6) on consideration of sensitive matters
related to public safety and security. Detective Silva stated that he would be in a bind
because of a previous case ruling under the Standards of Conduct that would not protect him
from being disciplined. He stated that the issues that he wants to talk about will cause the
public concern which is why he is asking for an executive session.
He asked if his written statement would be made public because if it is made public it would
put him in a bind. He stated that he wants to be able to speak about his concerns to the
Police Commission regarding the Chief of Police and the Department, but he does not violate
the Standards of Conduct and or break any rules.
Chair Bahouth stated that the confidential nature of what he is going to submit to the Police
Commission would have to go the Boards and Commissions first. He asked Ms. Ching if
letters submitted to her office would not be considered confidential at that point.
Ms. Ching any letter that potentially or any testimony with a accompanying letter requesting
to be place on the agenda would be routed to the Office of the County Attorney to determine
whether the letter/testimony would be placed in open or executive session. Once the county
attorney decides the item would be placed appropriately on the agenda, noting that items
that are placed in open session will be made public.
Chair Bahouth stated that there is a risk that the item could be place in open session to which
Ms. Ching replied yes and stated as a courtesy her office would inform the individual that their
request would be in placed on the agenda in open or in executive session.
Chair Bahouth stated that it’ his understanding that if the item is placed in open session the
individual could request to have the item pulled from the agenda to which Deputy County
Attorney Donahoe replied yes, but that must occur before the agenda is posted.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
Detective Silva stated that there must be a way for him to be able to testify in executive
session because subsection six (6) meets the requirement for an executive session.
Deputy County Attorney Donahoe clarified that any potential executive items (i.e.,
communication) will be vetted by the county attorney’s office to determine whether the item
meets the Hawai‘i Revised Statutes requirement to be placed in executive session or not.
Once a determination is made the requestor may pull their item back because it didn’t meet
the Sunshine Law requirements for an executive session and the item would not be made
public. However, if the item is placed on the agenda that it would be made part of the record
and subject to a UIPA request.
Ms. Ching stated that all UIPA requests must be reviewed by the county attorney’s office for
legalities and based on their review sections of the document (s) may be redacted to ensure
privacy and or sensitive information prior to the document being released.
Detective Silva stated that he does not want to violate the Standards of Conduct he just wants
to share his concerns about issues he mentioned earlier in executive session.
Deputy County Attorney Donahoe reiterated that before a determination can be made on
whether Detective Silva’s communication would be placed in open or executive session, he
would need to do a thoroughly review of the communication, and potentially it could be
released if asked. Once a request comes for information the document would have to be
reviewed again to see if it falls under the exception requirement as to whether or not it can or
should be released or not. If the document falls under the exception, then the document
would be released in a redacted form which depends on the privacy interests involved relative
to what is being communicated. Significant privacy interests under UIPA is different from the
open meetings.
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Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
Detective Silva asked for clarification if his request can be a written statement, or an outline
describing the subjects that he would like to speak about. Chair Bahouth stated that either
way Deputy County Attorney Donahoe would still have to decide.
Ms. Ching clarified further that it all depends on how Detective Silva’s communication written.
Detective Silva asked Ms. Ching if she had a sample document that could help him write his
communication. Ms. Ching replied that the document should indicate what he wants to
communication to the Commission, and it should state that it’s not related to testimony.
Deputy County Attorney Donahoe noted that his communication must fit the exceptions
specifically.
Detective Silva thanked everyone for the clarification and stated that he will be submitting his
written communication requesting for executive session time.
Commissioner Morita stated that based on Detective Silva’s statement he would like to move
to defer the item to the Commission’s next meeting. Commissioner Bestwick seconded the
motion. Hearing no objections, the motion carried 4:0.
Commissioner Bestwick thanked everyone who came out to testify stating that it takes
courage and patience to learn the process.
Sergeant Aaron Lester stated that he doesn’t know what Detective Silva is trying to do and
understands that there is a process in place to protect the Police Commission and to make
sure that everyone is following the right process. He asked if there are repercussions if the
Commission was to go into executive session with Detective Silva to hear what he had to say
and then determine in executive if it should be opened to the public.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
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SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
Chair Bahouth stated that what Detective Silva is requesting currently does not meet the
requirement for an executive session. Sergeant Lester asked if it is the county attorney’s
interpretation that Detective Silva’s communication must be addressed in open session and
what recourse is there for the Department if the chief of police did something, who could he
go to without violating the Standards of Conduct.
Deputy County Attorney Donahoe stated that the County has a policy on the Discipline of
Department Heads Subject to Removal by Boards and Commissions. Complaints against
department heads shall be in writing and filed with the Mayor of the County of Kauai no later
than 180 days from the date on which the complainant bec ame aware of the matter which
gave rise to the complaint.
Sergeant Lester asked if for some reason Detective Silva cannot speak to the Commission on
what he wants to say in executive session if he could to go to Human Resources. Deputy
County Attorney Donahoe explained that if the complaint is against a department head the
complainant should file the complaint with the mayor, and upon receipt of the complaint the
mayor shall transmit the said complaint to the appropriate Commission with the appointing
and removal power where an investigation potentially may or may not be opened.
For clarification, Commissioner Bestwick stated that the Police Commission does not oversee
the entire Police Department, the Commission’s purview is with the chief of police and
reviewing citizen complaints filed against members in the Kauai Police Department.
Being there were no further testimony, Chair Bahouth moved on to item KPC 2022 -17.
KPC 2022-17 Discussion and decision-making on establishing a permitted interaction group to write the
Consolidated Report as it relates to the Chief Raybuck’s evaluation, select three members or
less to serve on the group, and to determine the scope of the permitted action group.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 29
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
After reading the item, Administrator Ching called for public testimony seeing there were no
testifiers she called on Chair Bahouth to entertain a motion to form a permitted interaction
group.
Commissioner Morita asked if he could move to defer the item because both Chair Bahouth
and himself terms ends in December 2022 and with Vice Chair Jardin being absent he felt that
it would be better to wait until Vice Chair Jardin is present before establishing a three-
member permitted interaction group.
Ms. Ching explained that the purpose of establishing the permitted interaction group is for
the group work collaboratively to write a Consolidated Report on Police Chief Raybuck’s
notable accomplishments related to building capacity, addressing vacancies, community
safety, miscellaneous, and progress made toward the Department’s goals identified in KPD’s
FY21/22 Goals, as well as areas concerns by the Commissioners which covers the period from
July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022. She further explained that in the past the Chief’s evaluations
were comprised of individual commissioners’ comments without the mentioning of names,
but that became an issue because certain comments needed further clarification.
As such, Human Resources recommended that the Chief’s Performance Evaluation Report be
a summary of the entire body versus comments made by individual Commissioners.
Procedurally, staff would gather all the individual evaluations and col lated the comments into
one Report identifying each individual commissioner as commissioner 1, 2 and so forth.
Ms. Ching stated that the newly established permitted interaction group will be tasked to take
the Collated Report and generate a Consolidated Report reflective of the entire body.
Ms. Ching, in response to Chair Bahouth’s questioning, responded that the Consolidated
Report will be reviewed by Human Resources to make the Report is within the scope of HR.
Commissioner Morita
moved to establish a
permitted interaction
group. Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried 4:0.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 30
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
She added that the new PIG will be tasked to review the Collated Report and draft a
Consolidation Report for the Commission to review at the second meeting; and at the third
meeting the Commission will deliberate and decide if it wants to adopt the PIG’s
recommendations.
Once the Chief’s Performance Evaluation Consolidated Report is adopted then the Chair and
Vice Chair along with a representative from HR will meet with Chief Raybuck to discuss his
Performance Evaluation Consolidated Report. Once the Chair and Chief Raybuck signs the
Report, a copy will go to the Police Commission staff for recording keeping and a copy will go
HR for placement in Chief Raybuck’s personnel jacket, and the original will go to Chief
Raybuck.
Chair Bahouth stated that being that the motion to establish a permitted interaction group
passed the step is to ask for three or less members to serve on the permitted interaction
group.
Ms. Ching, in response to Commissioner Bestwick questioning, responded that the first
permitted interaction group he volunteered to serve on earlier hasn’t met yet because she
still needs to coordinate the meeting. The reason for the delay is because she wants
Commissioners Bestwick and Belz to be able to experience their first evaluation process and
as a group make recommendations to either keep it status quo or make changes to enhance
the Chief’s evaluation process. The new established permitted interaction group will focus on
the Collated Evaluation Report and draft a Consolidated Report whereas the first permitted
interaction group that was established earlier will be looking at the overall process and make
recommendations.
Chair Bahouth thanked Ms. Ching for the clarification, then called for three or less volunteers.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 31
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
Ms. Omo, in response to Commissioner Belz questioning, responded that although she did not
participate in the current evaluation the task of the second permitted interaction group is
review the Collated Report and draft a Consolidated Report for presentation to the
Commission, at the next meeting. Commissioner Belz stated that as a new Commissioner
there’s a lot to take in and she wanted to thank staff for clarifying the process.
With no further questions or comments, Commissioners Bestwick, Belz and Bahouth
volunteered to serve on the PIG. Chair Bahouth called for a motion.
Chair Bahouth called for a motion to establish the scope of the PIG to draft a Consolidated
Evaluation Report.
Motion No. 2
Commissioner Morita
moved to designate
Commissioners Bestwick,
Belz and Chair Bahouth to
serve on the PIG.
Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried 4:0.
Motion No. 3
Commissioner Bestwick
moved. Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried 4:0.
KPC 2022-18 Public announcement on the Police Commission’s disposition on Notarized Complaint KPC
2022-002, alleging that an officer in the Kauai Police Department covered up a hate crime.
Chair Bahouth called for public testimony. There was none.
Ms. Ching read the public announcement on the Police Commission’s disposition for Notarized
Complaint No. 2022-002, into the record. The complainant alleges that an officer in the Kauai
Police Department covered up a hate crime. After discussion and deliberation, the P olice
Commission rendered the allegation unfounded because it was not based on facts. This
officially concluded the Commission’s review of Notarized Complaint KPC 2022-002.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 32
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
KPC 2021-43 Discussion and decision-making on the climate assessment that was conducted by the Kauai
Police Commission on the Kauai Police Department. (Deferred on May 27, 2022)
Ms. Ching called for public testimony. There was none. Chair Bahouth called for a motion to
defer item KPC 2021-43 to the Commission’s August meeting at which time the Report will be
available.
A motion was made to
defer item KPC 2021-43 to
the August meeting.
Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion, the
motion carried 4:0.
KPC 2022-19 Discussion and decision-making on a request for legal representation to be provided by the
County Attorney’s Office to Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck, Police Lieutenant Christian
Jenkins, Police Sergeant Ginny Pia, and Police Lieutenant Scott Williamson (former/resigned)
in both their individual and professional capacities as it relates to Civil No. CV22 00269 LEK
WRP that was filed by Wenjiu Liu in the United States Court for the District of Hawai‘i.
Ms. Ching called for public testimony. There was none.
Deputy County Attorney Donahoe recommended that the Commission moved to defer the
item until after executive session so he can consult with the Commission concerning its
powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities as they may relate to the case.
Commissioner Morita
moved to defer item KPC
2022-19 until after
executive session.
Commissioner Bestwick
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried.
KPC 2022-20 Discussion and decision-making on a request for legal representation to be provided by the
County Attorney’s Office to Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck, as it relates to Civil No. 22 00286 -
LEK-WRP, filed by Donald S. Greer, Ph.D. in the United States Court for the District of Hawai’i
against Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck, in both is individual and professional capacities.
Chair Bahouth called for public testimony. There was none.
Deputy County Attorney Donahoe recommended that the Commission moved to defer the
item until after executive session so he can consult with the Commission concerning its
powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities as they may relate to the case.
Commissioner Bestwick
moved to defer item KPC
2022-20 until after
executive session.
Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried 4:0.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 33
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
Executive Session Pursuant to Hawai‘i Revised Statutes §92-4, §92-5 (a) (2) and (4). The purpose of this
Executive Session is for the Commission to review and discuss charges brought against an
officer in the Kauai Police Department, where consideration of matters affecting privacy will
be involved, provided that if the individual requests an open meeting, an open meeting shall
be held; and to consult with its Attorney on issues pertaining to the Commission’s powers,
duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities as they may relate to the agenda items: ES KPC
2021-032, ES KPC 2022-1, ES KPC 2022-3 through ES KPC 2022-20.
At 12:06 p.m. Deputy
County Attorney cited the
following Hawai‘i Revised
Statues to take the meeting
into executive session.
ES
KPC 2022-1
Monthly update by Lt. Christian Jenkins, Office of Professional Standards, or his
designated representative on the status of the Department’s disposition on formal
notarized complaints that were filed with the Kauai Police Department and the
Kauai Police Commission and referred to the Office of the Chief for further review.
ES
KPC 2022-3
Monthly update by Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck, Kauai Police Department, or his
designated representative on any significant adverse incidents/events involving
personnel in the Kauai Police Department that could potentially impact the County,
the Police Commission and the Kauai Police Department.
ES
KPC 2022-032
Complaint no. KPC 2021-013 received on November 4, 2021. The complaint alleges unethical
and unprofessional behavior. (On-going)
(a) Discussion and decision-making on the County of Kauai Department of Human
Resources Investigation Report related to the above-mentioned complaint that
was filed against an officer in the Kauai Police Department alleging unethical and
unprofessional behavior.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 34
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
ES
KPC 2022-13
New notarized complaint KPC 2022-004, filed May 3, 2022, alleges that an officer in the Kauai
Police Department provided special and preferential treatment to another officer who was
caught attempting to conceal a firearm through a security checkpoint.
ES
KPC 2022-17
New Notarized Complaint KPC 2022-003 filed on May 25, 2022, alleges that two(2) on-duty
officers in the Kauai Police Department violated Article VI B (4), by choosing personal
preferment over public safety.
ES
KPC 2022-18
New Notarized Complaint KPC 2022-004 (a) filed on May 31, 2022, alleges that an on-duty
officer in the Kauai Police Department abused his police power by falsely arresting the
complainant.
ES
KPC 2022-19
New Notarized Complaint KPC 2022-005 (a) filed on June 6, 2022, alleges that two (2) on-duty
officers in the Kauai Police Department approached the complainant without a warrant
harassed, assaulted, injured, and arrested the complainant and took his property and vehicle
and hasn’t returned any of property back to him.
ES
KPC 2022-20
Copy of a letter dated July 6, 2022, from SHOPO Business Agent Roy Asher to Ms. Annette L.
Anderson Director of Human Resources regarding improper investigation into officer conduct
and an alleged defamatory statement.
ES
KPC 2022-16
Pursuant to Hawai‘i Revised Statutes §92-4, §92-5 (a) (4), §92-9 (a) (1-4) and (b), the purpose
of this Executive Session is for the Commission to approve or amend the regular Executive
Session minutes of April 22, 2022, Meeting. Where consideration of matters affecting privacy
will be involved and to consult with its Attorney on issues pertaining to the Commission’s
powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities as they may relate to this item. (Deferred
on May 27, 2022)
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 35
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
ES
KPC 2022-22
Pursuant to Hawai‘i Revised Statutes§92-4 §92-5 (a) (4), §92-9 (a) (1-4) and (b), the purpose
of this Executive Session is for the Commission to approve or amend the regular Executive
Session minutes of May 27, 2022, Meeting. Where consideration of matters affecting privacy
will be involved and to consult with its Attorney on issues pertaining to the Commission’s
powers, duties, privileges, immunities, and liabilities as they may relate to this item.
ES
KPC 2022-23
Pursuant to Hawai‘i Revised Statutes §92-4, §92-5 (a) (4), the purpose of this Executive
Session is for the Commission to consult with its Attorney concerning the Commission’s
powers, duties, immunities, privileges, and liabilities as they may relate to Chief Raybuck’s FY
July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022, evaluation.
ES
KPC 2022-24
Pursuant to Hawai‘i Revised Statutes §92-4, §92-5 (a) (2) (4) and (5), the purpose of this
Executive Session is for the Commission consult with its Attorney concerning the
Commission’s powers, duties, immunities, privileges, and liabilities as they may relate to a
request for legal representation to be provided by the County Attorney’s Office to Chief of
Police Todd G. Raybuck, Police Lieutenant Christian Jenkins, Police Sergeant Ginny Pia, and
Police Lieutenant (former/Resigned) in both their individual and professional capacities in Civil
No. CV22 00269 LEK WRP that was filed by Mr. Wenjiu Liu in the United States Court for the
District of Hawai‘i against Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck, Police Lieutenant Christian Jenkins,
Police Sergeant Ginny Pia, and Police Lieutenant Scott Williamson (former/Resigned).
ES
KPC 2022-25
Pursuant to Hawai‘i Revised Statutes §92-4, §92-5 (a) (2), (4) and (5), the purpose of this
Executive Session is for the Commission to consult with its Attorney concerning the
Commission’s powers, duties, immunities, privileges, and liabilities as they may relate to a
request for legal representation to be provided by the County Attorney’s Office to Chief of
Police Todd G. Raybuck, in both his individual and professional capacity in Civil No. 22 00286 -
LEK-WRP, that was filed by Donald S. Greer, Ph.D. in th e United States Court for the District of
Hawai‘i against Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 36
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
ES
KPC 2022-26
Pursuant to Hawai‘i Revised Statutes §92-4, §92-5(2) (4), the purpose of this executive session
is for the Commission to consult with its Attorney concerning the Commission’s powers,
duties, immunities, privileges, and liabilities as it may relate to a letter dated June 15, 2022,
from SHOPO Business Agent Roy Asher, Kauai to Chair Gerald Bahouth and Members of the
Police Commission regarding comments that were made by commissioners in Chief Raybuck’s
Police Commission Evaluation for the period of April 19, 2019, to April 22, 2020.
Before Chair Bahouth called for a motion to enter executive session, he called for public
testimony on any of the items listed in executive session. There was no testimony. Chair
Bahouth called for a motion to enter executive session.
Commissioner Morita
moved. Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried 4:0. At 12:13
p.m. the Commissioners
entered executive session.
Return to open
session to ratify
the actions taken
in executive
session
At 2:33 p.m., the Commissioners returned to open session. A quorum was ascertained.
Chair Bahouth called for a motion to ratify the actions taken in executive session.
Commissioner Morita
moved. Commissioner
Bestwick seconded the
motion. Hearing no
objections, the motion
carried 4:0.
KPC 2022-19 Discussion and decision-making on a request for legal representation to be provided by the
County Attorney’s Office to Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck, Police Lieutenant Christian
Jenkins, Police Sergeant Ginny Pia, and Police Lieutenant Scott Williamson (former/resigned)
in both their individual and professional capacities as it relates to Civil No. CV22 00269 LEK
WRP that was filed by Wenjiu Liu in the United States Court for the District of Hawai‘i.
There was a motion by
Commissioner Morita to
grant legal representation
for Police Chief Todd G.
Raybuck, Lieutenant
Christian Jenkins, Segreant
Ginny Pia, and
former/resigned Lieutenant
Scott Williamson.
Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried 4:0.
KPC Open Session Minutes
Of July 29, 2022, Meeting
Page 37
SUBJECT DISCUSSION ACTION
KPC 2022-20 Discussion and decision-making on a request for legal representation to be provided by the
County Attorney’s Office to Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck, as it relates to Civil No. 22 00286 -
LEK-WRP, filed by Donald S. Greer, Ph.D. in the United States Court fo r the District of Hawai’i
against Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck, in both is individual and professional capacities.
There was a motion by
Commissioner Morita to
grant legal representation
for Police Chief Todd G.
Raybuck, Lieutenant
Christian Jenkins, Segreant
Ginny Pia, and
former/resigned Lieutenant
Scott Williamson.
Commissioner Belz
seconded the motion.
Hearing no objections, the
motion carried 4:0.
Adjournment With no further business to conduct, Chair Bahouth called for a motion to adjourn the
meeting.
Commissioner Morita
moved. Commissioner
Bestwick seconded the
motion. Hearing no
objections, the meeting
adjourned at 2:45 p.m.
Submitted by: __________________________________ Reviewed and Approved by: _________________________________________
Mercedes Omo, Staff Support Clerk Gerald Bahouth, Chair
(x ) Approved as circulated on October 28, 2022.
( ) Approved as amended. See minutes of ___________ meeting.