Suspect leads HPD on hours-long pursuit after allegedly attacking officer, stealing his police vehicle
LAIE (HawaiiNewsNow) - A 39-year-old suspect is in custody after he allegedly attacked an officer in Laie and then stole his police vehicle, setting off a dramatic two-hour pursuit that ended at Iolani Palace, Honolulu Police Chief Joe Logan said.
The suspect has been identified as Hokuokalani Patoc, Jr.
He was arrested about 7 a.m. for first-degree attempted murder on a law enforcement officer, auto theft, and resisting arrest.
Logan said the officer who was attacked ― Cpl. Nakia Newton ― sustained critical injuries to his head but is conscious and is able to talk to family members. He’s assigned to Kaneohe and has 16 years of service.
The weapon the suspect used was apparently a crowbar or something similar.
“The job is very dangerous. You never know when incidents like this are going to happen,” Logan told reporters.
Police also confirmed the suspect was transported to a hospital after his arrest with non-life-threatening injuries.
The attack on the officer happened about 5 a.m. near Iosepa Street and Naniloa Loop.
Logan said the officer had responded to a report of a hazardous driver. The suspect was pulled over, Logan said, and that’s when he allegedly attacked the officer and stole his vehicle.
Honolulu EMS responded, administering advanced life support to the officer in his mid-40s.
Shortly after the attack, a witness caught dashcam video of the officer’s unmarked SUV with its blue light driving in circles.
In a statement, the SHOPO police union called on the city Prosecutor’s Office to pursue the strongest charges against the suspect.
“Today’s malicious attack is yet another example of criminals feeling emboldened to assault our officers so they can keep committing crimes and victimizing our community,” the union said.
“There can be zero tolerance for an attack on law enforcement officers.”
An investigation is ongoing.
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