Awards

The Hawaiʻi Police Department is grateful for the community organizations around Hawaiʻi Island that take the time and effort to honor the hard work and dedication of our officers throughout the year.

The Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaiʻi honors a police officer in East Hawaiʻi 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. From the Officer of the Month winners, an Officer of the Year is selected and honored every March. The Kona Crime Prevention Committee honors a West Hawaiʻi Officer of the Month, and from this pool of monthly winners, selects an Officer of the Year every September.

2025

Amy Omaya

Sergeant

A 14-year veteran of the department, Sergeant Amy Omaya was honored for her exceptional investigative work and dedication to justice. Sergeant Omaya, who is widely respected for her determination, meticulous attention to detail, and compassion for victims and their families, was instrumental in solving two high-profile homicide cases on Hawai‘i Island. Both cases have been referred to the Hawai‘i County Prosecutor’s Office for final disposition.

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Charles Caldwell-Kaai

Officer

Officer Charles Caldwell-Kaai was recognized for his thorough investigation skills, hard work ethic, and dedication to keeping the community safe. During an 18-hour shift in March 2024, he identified and apprehended a wanted suspect, leading to felony charges ranging from habitual property crime to identity theft. Later that same day, his quick observation of a stolen Jeep led to the arrest of a second suspect and charges for drug possession, mail theft, and credit card fraud. Officer Caldwell-Kaai has served with distinction throughout his five-year tenure with the department,.

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