Kona Community Policing Section Launches Monthly Kupuna Watch Outreach

Hawaiʻi Police Department’s Kona Community Policing Section has launched a new monthly Kupuna Watch outreach program in partnership with the County of Hawaiʻi Department of Parks and Recreation’s Elderly Activities Division.

Spearheaded by Kona Community Policing Sergeant Wyattlane Nahale, Kupuna Watch is a new initiative that provides an opportunity for officers to engage with kūpuna during their regularly scheduled activities at various County facilities in Kona. During these sessions, officers discuss crime and traffic trends, the importance of reporting elder abuse, as well as ways to identify and prevent financial and internet crimes. The goal is to strengthen trust, promote safety, and build positive relationships through direct, face-to-face interaction.

“Our commitment to keeping our Kupuna safe is essential, as they are a treasured part of our community,” said Kona Community Policing Section Sergeant Wyattlane Nahale.

The first event, held Friday, November 7, at the Kona Imin Center in Hōlualoa, was very well received by the nearly two dozen seniors in attendance.

A second Kupuna Watch outreach meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m., at the Sgt. Rodney J.T. Yano Memorial Hall, 82-6156 Māmalahoa Highway, in Captain Cook.

Hawaiʻi Police Department looks forward to expanding this partnership and continuing efforts to support and protect the island’s kūpuna community. For more information, contact Kona Community Policing Section Sergeant Wyattlane Nahale at (808) 326-4646, ext. 259.