Officer Love Recognized by HISSPA for His Outstanding Commitment to Public Safety

For his exemplary service in assisting a stranded motorist on a busy highway, South Kohala Patrol Officer Andrew Love Jr. was recognized as Officer of the Quarter for the first quarter of 2026 by the Hawaii Island Safety and Security Professionals Association (HISSPA) at a ceremony held June 12, 2026 in South Kohala.

On November 26, 2025, Officer Love encountered a driver whose vehicle had run out of diesel fuel. Recognizing both the safety risk posed by the vehicle’s location and the stress of the situation for the motorist, Officer Love took immediate and proactive steps to ensure their well-being. After helping to push the vehicle off the roadway, Officer Love went to the nearest gas station where he purchased diesel fuel. He then went back to the stranded motorist, who also needed a jump start. Officer Love remained there to assist until the driver was able to safely get back on the road.

“Officer Love’s actions reflect exceptional professionalism, compassion, and dedication,” said South Kohala Patrol Sergeant Tyler Prokopec, who nominated Officer Love for the award. “His actions not only ensured the immediate safety of the stranded motorist, but also helped prevent potential hazards for other drivers traveling on the busy highway.”