South Kohala District Officer Landon Takenishi was named "Officer of the Quarter" for the fourth quarter of 2024 by the Hawaii Island Safety and Security Professionals Association on February 28. His work led to the arrest and charging of suspects involved in theft and drug offenses. The investigation began on October 26, 2024, when Officer Takenishi responded to a theft of two golf carts and tools in Waikoloa. While gathering evidence, he linked a suspect from a separate lawnmower theft to the earlier incidents, according to the Hawaii Police Department.
The case resulted from Officer Takenishi's diligent work, which led to the recovery of stolen property and illicit substances, including 11.88 grams of methamphetamine. The operation also intercepted an unregistered shotgun, potentially preventing further harm to the community, as reported by the Hawaii Police Department.
Officer Takenishi received recognition for his role in a recent investigation that led to arrests and disrupted a criminal enterprise. Sergeant Bradden Kimura, who nominated him, stated, "His outstanding performance in this investigation has had a significant and positive impact on our community." This award from Hawaii Island Safety and Security Professionals Association is Officer Takenishi's third, following previous honors in Q3 2023 for an assault investigation and in Q2 2024 for his work on roadway safety, as mentioned by the Hawaii Police Department.
