The Hawaiʻi Police Department's Captain Roylen Valera was recently feted with honors from both the Hawaiʻi County Council and the Hawaiʻi State Senate at the 9th Annual Mahalo First Responders Ceremony held on November 21st. Valera's 28-year tenure with the department has been marked by substantial community engagement and dedicated public service. In recognition of his efforts, Captain Valera was awarded a Certificate of Recognition and a Certificate of Honor during the event in Kamuela, as noted in a report by the Hawaiʻi Police Department.
Valera's career began in North Kohala as a patrol officer, after which he transferred to the Hāmākua District. Throughout his journey, from School Resource Officer in Hāmākua to Sergeant of the Kona Community Policing Section, Valera has worked on fostering stronger bonds within the community. His work in the Juvenile Aid Section and as a detective with Area II Criminal Investigation Services are testament to his unwavering dedication to justice and public safety. Despite his administrative duties, Valera manages to stay connected with youth initiatives such as the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) Program.
The Mahalo First Responders Ceremony was attended by state officials including Senator Herbert “Tim” Richards, who personally presented Valera with the Senate's accolade. Valera's outstanding contributions have not gone unnoticed, with his name frequently appearing in the roll-call of distinguished service, such as the Officer of the Month by the Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaiʻi, and the recipient of the Champion and Protector’s Award from the East Hawaiʻi Children’s Justice Center.
South Kohala Community Police Officer Justin Cabanting acknowledged Valera's influence stating, "Captain Valera serves as an example of excellence for all who wear the badge." Meanwhile, Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna expressed his admiration and spoke highly of Valera's role within the force. "Roy’s life is truly dedicated to public service and I am very proud of him and this well-deserved recognition," Mahuna told the Hawaiʻi Police Department.
