103rd Police Recruit Class Graduates

The Hawai‘i Police Department welcomed four new officers following the 103rd Police Recruit Class recognition ceremony held Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, in Hilo. During the ceremony, each officer had their badge pinned on by a loved one. Attendance was limited to police personnel, guest speakers, and family members.

The 103rd Recruit Class began training on April 1, 2025. After six months of academic instruction, which concluded on Oct. 15, 2025, recruits completed four months of field training under the guidance of veteran officers across various districts. The class included Officer Ethan J. Castillo (class president), Officer Roberto F. Lopez, Officer Dayton K. Fukunaga, and Officer James R. Skizewski.

Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna praised the officers for their perseverance and achievement.

“As you begin your careers in law enforcement, remember that the foundation of your service must always be rooted in our Hawaiian values: aloha in how you treat others, kuleana in the responsibility you carry, pono in doing what is right even when no one is watching, and lokahi in working together with the community you serve,” Mahuna said. “These values should guide every decision you make, on and off duty.”

Class president Officer Ethan Castillo addressed the class, command staff, and guests during the ceremony. Special recognition was also given to recruits who excelled during academic training. Officer Castillo received the Firearms Award for demonstrating the highest level of performance and proficiency, and he was also awarded the Physical Fitness Award for excelling in and maintaining conditioning throughout training. Officer Skeizewski received the Academic Award, which is presented to the recruit who achieves the highest overall average on weekly examinations throughout the police academy.

Photo left to right: Officer Roberto F. Lopez, Officer Dayton K. Fukunaga, Officer Ethan J. Castillo (class president), Officer James R. Skizewski.