Officer Leonard Warren Honored with Haweo Award for Leadership in Youth Engagement Projects

For his continued leadership in youth engagement and community partnership initiatives throughout West Hawaiʻi, Kona Community Policing Officer Leonard Warren was honored with the Haweo award during a ceremony held at Hawai‘i County Council chambers in Kona on Feb. 18, 2026.

A 20-year veteran of the department, Officer Warren led multiple successful HI-PAL youth and community initiatives in west Hawai‘i in 2025, positively impacting hundreds of keiki and adults while strengthening community engagement.

“This well-deserved recognition, reflects the meaningful impact and positive difference that Officer Leonard Warren continues to make in our community that he serves,” said Kona Community Policing Section Sergeant Wyattlane Nahale.  

On March 22, 2025, Officer Warren coordinated the second annual HI-PAL Outrigger Canoe Regatta at the Kailua Pier in Kailua-Kona. In partnership with local canoe clubs and community supporters, 100 keiki from across West Hawaiʻi participated in the half-mile race, promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, and community connection. Food, refreshments, and participation medals were provided to all youth involved.

On Aug. 9, 2025, Officer Warren organized the first Kona HI-PAL Youth Musical Showcase in Kona in collaboration with community partners. Twenty youth performers participated in the event, attended by nearly 200 community members. Winners of the showcase received opportunities to further develop their musical talents, while all participants were recognized for their efforts.

Officer Warren also coordinated several community service events in December. On Dec. 20, he led the inaugural Fill-A-Cruiser Toy Drive in Kona, partnering with community organizations to collect more than 1,000 donated toys for distribution to West Hawaiʻi keiki during the holiday season. On Dec. 28, he organized the first Mālama Ke Ala O Keawe community cleanup along the historic Ke Ala O Keawe corridor in South Kona, bringing together 50 volunteers for a day of stewardship, followed by fellowship and community activities. Officer Warren’s continued dedication to outreach, youth mentorship, and collaborative partnerships reflects the Hawaiʻi Police Department’s commitment to providing the highest quality police service while strengthening relationships with the communities we serve.