Maui Police Commission Begins Process for New Chief Selection

By Maui Now Staff

The Maui Police Commission released information today saying it is moving forward in fulfilling its responsibility to appoint the next chief of police, following Chief Gary Yabuta’s announcement on Friday that he is retiring from the post to take on federal employment with the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program.

“The Commission will use all available resources to identify and review quality candidates for this essential position. Our commitment is to remain transparent regarding our search and selection process as we continue to build public trust in policing and encourage strong partnerships with the community,” Commission Chair Roger Dixon said in a press release.

Dixon congratulated Chief Yabuta on his retirement from the Maui Police Department, and his new role role with the federal government saying, “The Commission is proud that the Chief of Police of Maui County will represent the State of Hawai‘i in this important national initiative. Chief Yabuta’s 31 years of service has left a significant impact on many in our community. His leadership and hard work will be missed.”

Dixon called the selection of the next Maui County Chief of Police “one of our most important priorities.”

Chief Yabuta said he will continue as chief until sometime in July, 2014.