Last Friday, the Kaua‘i Police Department celebrated the promotions of four seasoned officers at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall, signaling new leadership roles within the force. According to a release from the Kaua‘i Police Department, Lieutenants Stacy Perreira and Lance Okasaki ascended to the rank of Captain, while former Captains Makana Rivera and Darren Rose moved up to Assistant Chief. The ceremony, a testament to the officers' cumulative years of service and commitment, was attended by colleagues, local dignitaries, and supportive family members who participated in the tradition of pinning badges on the promotees.
Having started her career as a Domestic Violence Coordinator in 2000, Captain Stacy Perreira climbed the ranks to police officer in 2012. Her education in Criminal Justice and Information Technology, coupled with a rich tapestry of roles from patrol to administration, forearmed her with the expertise essential to her leading the Crisis Negotiation Team before ascending to her new station. Captain Lance Okasaki, who joined Kaua‘i Police Department the same year, filled positions across all departments, earning him a well-rounded perspective vital for his promotion, his most recent stint was serving as Acting Captain of the Support Services Bureau.
Assistant Chief Makana Rivera, with a background starting in 2009 encompassing patrol, vice, property, and major crimes, had his ability to lead tested as Executive Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Chief of Support Services Bureau, preparing him before he officially received his promotion. Assistant Chief Darren Rose, who brought forth over two decades of experience from his start in 2000 with the department, is recognized with awards such as Kaua‘i Police Department Employee of the Year and boasts a track record across narcotics and investigations, including his last assignment as the Division Captain of the Criminal Investigations Division.
In lieu of the promotions, Assistant Chief Kalani Ke remarked on the tenacity and vision of the officers, saying, "For those who have worked with these individuals or know them personally, their promotions today come as no surprise. They are leaders with integrity, professionalism, and heart," according to the Kaua‘i Police Department official release. The Kaua'i Police Department is currently recruiting for their next Police Academy class, hinting at the opportunity for committed individuals to follow in the footsteps of these newly promoted leaders.
