A 26-year-old probationary employee of the Maui Police Department was arrested Monday on suspicion of sexual assault, authorities said. Police report the alleged incident took place while the employee was off duty, and he remains in custody as detectives continue their investigation. The department has placed him on administrative leave without pay while the probe moves forward.
What We Know So Far
According to police, the suspect is a 26-year-old man from Makawao who faces allegations that include sexual assault in the second, third and fourth degrees. The arrest stems from an off-duty incident, and investigators say he has been employed with the Maui Police Department since Dec. 16, 2025, as a probationary hire. He was taken into custody Monday, and MPD says the investigation is ongoing.
In a statement to KITV, Maui Police Chief John Pelletier said the department is committed to protecting members of the community.
Department Context
The Maui Police Department has said it will hold employees accountable when criminal allegations surface, and placing staff on leave during investigations has been standard practice. For context, a veteran officer was arrested on sex-assault allegations in May 2025 and was removed from duty, as reported by Maui Now. Officials say personnel discipline and criminal prosecutions proceed on separate tracks to protect the integrity of both processes.
What Happens Next
Investigators say the inquiry is active and that any evidence will be presented to prosecutors for charging decisions. Police emphasize that an arrest indicates probable cause, not guilt. The suspect remains in custody and is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
MPD has not released additional details about any alleged victim and is asking anyone with information related to the case to contact investigators.
