HPD keeps several youth programs unchanged as officers return to patrol

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The Honolulu Police Department says several youth programs will remain unchanged as it moves more officers back to patrol.

HPD said the staffing changes are aimed at improving response times and officer safety while the department also deals with a significant overtime budget deficit.

After hearing concerns from the community, HPD said the Police Activities League and Junior Police Officer program will continue without changes.

The Police Services Officer program, formerly known as the Cadet program, the Law Enforcement Explorers program and the School Resource Officer program will also continue.

The D.A.R.E. program, however, will be put on hold after the current session graduates.

HPD said it will take a phased approach to reassigning personnel.

As of Oct. 18, 54 officers from Fourth Watch had been reassigned to patrol, with additional personnel expected to return throughout November.

Officers will be reassigned from several divisions, including Community Affairs, Human Resources, Information Technology, Major Events, Records and Identification, Training, the Chief’s Office, Criminal Intelligence Unit and district misdemeanor follow-up details.

Despite the changes, HPD said administrative and investigative services will continue.

The department said the decisions were not made lightly and acknowledged the impact the reassignments may have on officers and their families.