Three Officers Honored by Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawai‘i

Three Hawai‘i Island police officers were recognized by the Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawai‘i for their exceptional performance, professionalism, and dedication to keeping the community safe during the third quarter of 2025. All three officers were honored during a luncheon in Hilo on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025. Hilo Patrol Officer Blane Kenolio was honored as Officer of the Month for July 2025, Puna Patrol Officer Christian Madera for August 2025, and Puna Patrol Officer Dallas Arce for September 2025.

Officer Blane Kenolio, a six-year veteran assigned to Hilo Patrol, was recognized for his outstanding investigative work and keen observational skills that led to the arrest of a repeat offender and recovery of stolen property. While patrolling Railroad Avenue, Officer Kenolio discovered an abandoned vehicle that had been stripped and later confirmed to be stolen. Weeks later, he stopped another vehicle with rims matching those stolen from the first car. His persistence and attention to detail led to the recovery of multiple stolen parts and the arrest and charging of a habitual property crime offender. Officer Kenolio’s diligence and commitment to justice exemplify the highest standards of the Hawai‘i Police Department.

Officer Christian Madera, a five-year veteran of the Puna Patrol, was honored for his compassion, perseverance, and skill in handling a sensitive domestic abuse case. Responding to a welfare check on July 30, 2025, Officer Madera’s careful communication with the victim’s mother, who lived on the mainland, and his calm, methodical approach helped safely rescue an 18-year-old woman from a violent situation involving her father. His continued investigation, even during his scheduled days off, resulted in multiple charges against the suspect and coordination with the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawai‘i Island to assist the victim’s safe return to her mainland home. Officer Madera’s empathy and professionalism reflect the department’s core values of integrity, compassion, and teamwork.

Officer Dallas Arce, a five-year veteran assigned to Puna Patrol, was recognized for his quick thinking and decisive actions in two separate incidents that demonstrated his commitment to community safety. In one case, his response to a domestic disturbance led to the arrest of a violent, intoxicated suspect and the seizure of large quantities of narcotics. In another, his persistence in a burglary investigation led to the identification, arrest, and charging of the suspect, as well as the recovery of stolen property. Officer Arce’s vigilance and dedication are clear examples of proactive, community-focused policing.

“Each of these officers represents the professionalism, courage, and compassion that define our department. Their initiative and dedication, both on and off duty, reflect the true spirit of public service and the difference that one determined officer can make in the lives of others,” said Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna.

Every month the Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawai‘i honors a police officer in East Hawaii as their officer of the month. Officers are nominated by their supervisors from the police districts in Area I, including Hāmākua, North Hilo, South Hilo, and Puna. As Officer of the Month honorees, Kenolio, Madera, and Arce are all eligible to be considered for the Aloha Exchange Club’s Officer of the Year award.