#Criminal Intelligence Unit

Chief John Pelletier emphasized a “zero tolerance” approach to the incident, initiating both internal and external audits in an effort to restore public trust. The external review will be conducted by Hawaiʻi County Police Chief Reed K. Mahuna to ensure transparency and objectivity.

“These allegations involving Lieutenant Michael Vaitu’ulala are difficult for me to reconcile with the person I have known both professionally and personally for many years. I trusted him and considered him a friend, and he was present during deeply personal moments in my life, including conducting the blessing when my father’s ashes were scattered,” said Pelletier.

Maui Police Department Lieutenant Donald Kanemitsu was promoted to the rank of Captain in the latest round of promotions announced by Chief Gary Yabuta today. Kanemitsu is a 20 year veteran with the department and most recently served in the Criminal Intelligence Unit, where he has served in three separate assignments as a Patrol Officer, […]