The Hawaiʻi County Police Department’s 94th Police Recruit Class Recognition Ceremony was held on Wednesday, December 15, 2021, at the Edith Kanakaole Tennis Stadium in Hilo. 

The Recruit Class, which began their training on June 1, 2021, was comprised of a group individuals with varying backgrounds from all parts of the world including Estonia, Tahiti, New York, Indiana, Illinois, California, and Oahu, as well as from the Big Island.

After six months of intensive training, 21 police recruits remained and graduated.  The  newly graduated officers will undergo four months of on-the-job field training with veteran police officers before they are qualified to work alone.

Class Officers include Officer Onan Masaoka, Class President, Officer Boyd Bangloy, Vice President, Officer Keaolapule Fessenden-Grace, Secretary, and Officer Makena Nahooikaika, Treasurer.
Other members of the class include Miexia Ah Loy, Ryan Barrett, Joseph Brandner, John Chiquita IV, Jason Cunefare, Chyann Gabriel, Mark Kaili Jr., Frances Kaschan, Heiarii Lee Chip Sao, Jared-Taylor Makaweo-Quihano, Lawrence Matsumoto Jr., Kesia Quiocho, Chase Rasse, Vince Sanekane and Gyasi Williams.

Special recognition was given to those recruit officers who achieved outstanding performance during the course of academic training. The Academic Award was awarded to Officer Miexia Ah Loy who attained and upheld the highest grade point average on weekly and certification examinations. Officer Mark Kaili Jr. was presented with the Firearms Award for his interest and proficiency in the use of firearms and for attaining the highest rating in firearms training. Recipients of the academic and firearms awards will have their names engraved on a perpetual plaque, which is displayed in the department’s training room.

Officer Keaolapule Fessenden-Grace was recognized with the Physical Fitness Award for excelling and maintaining his level of physical conditioning. Officer Onan Masaoka received the Overall Outstanding Recruit Award for his motivational and leadership qualities.



Photo credit courtesy of Hawaiʻi County Police Department