A South Kohala district police officer recently was honored for his persistence, diligence and determination in keeping the roadways safe.
Officer Landon Takenishi was recognized as Officer of the Quarter for the second quarter of 2024 by the Hawaii Island Safety and Security Professionals Association in a ceremony held Aug. 9 on the Kohala Coast.
A 12-year veteran of the department, Takenishi is certified as a Drug Recognition Expert and has received specialized training to detect signs of impairment in drivers who may have used substances other than alcohol.
He has put his skills to good use, identifying and arresting four intoxicated drivers during the second quarter of the year, according to a Hawaii Police Department press release.
Recently, while on one of his many patrols of the Waikoloa community, Takenishi checked on a suspicious vehicle parked at the Kamakoa Nui Park (Waikoloa Skate Park) while it was closed. Upon observing several people in the car with opened liquor containers and drug paraphernalia inside, the items were recovered as evidence as part of his investigation.
By his actions, Takenishi’s observation skills and initiative prevented this driver from using substances and driving, which may have created danger to everyone else on the road.
Takenishi’s efforts are all the more imperative given that traffic fatalities are up 64% so far this year compared to the same time period last year. So far in 2024, there have been 21 fatal crash crashes resulting in 23 deaths, with at least 15 of those crashes due to alcohol or drug impairment.
“During this quarter, Officer Takenishi investigated many incidents and initiated arrests,” said South Kohala District Captain Roylen Valera in the press release. “His work ethic clearly illustrates his care and compassion for the community in which he serves.”