The police officers’ union announced a new leadership team today following elections in December, according to a news release.
In September, SHOPO announced the largest pay increase for officers statewide in at least 17 years after an independent arbitrator issued a decision on a new four-year contract.
The total compensation package will provide most members with an increase of more than 27.5%, including base wages, step increases for years of service and a $1,800 retention bonus paid on July 1. Overtime rates for officers increase with base pay.
With a statewide staffing crisis “affecting all departments,” the incoming board is focused on a “proactive agenda to improve officer morale, increase our ability to attract and retain the best police professionals.”
“It’s an honor to lead SHOPO during this time of immense challenges and opportunities,” said Don Faumuina, SHOPO State President and a 25-year veteran of HPD. “We have the right team to do the job. Our new board is comprised of dedicated professionals, with a diverse background and range of experiences, who bring a solution-oriented approach to the challenges facing our officers and communities today.”
In addition to Faumuina:
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>> Jonathan Frye, an HPD sergeant with 15 years of experience, was elected vice president. Zelda “Z” Cabudol, a 35-year veteran of HPD, was elected state board secretary.
>> Jason “Jay” Boquer-Wintjen, an HPD sergeant with 22 years on the job, was elected to serve as treasurer.
>> James “Jimmy” Maloney, an HPD patrol officer with seven years of service, was elected the Honolulu Chapter Chair.
>> Cacique “CC” Melendez, a Hawaii Police Department detective with almost two decades with the department, was elected Hawaii Chapter Chair.
>> Kenneth “Kenny” Carroll, a Maui Police Department sergeant with 21 years of service, was elected Maui Chapter Chair.
>> Brian Silva, a sergeant with 24 years of service with the Kauai Police Department, was elected Kauai Chapter Chair.
>> Lovinna Cayabyab, who worked 17 years for HPD after two years with KPD, was elected State Board Director-at-Large
>> Enoka Lucas, an HPD sergeant with 14 years of service, was elected State Board Director-at-Large
>> Oscar “OJ” Willis, an HPDx veteran of 21 years, was also elected State Board Director-at-Large
The new Board of Directors’ priorities include pursuing “pay scales that are comparable to mainland counterparts” and prioritizing a policy solution for the Tier 2 retirement issue, which currently “jeopardizes the long-term retention of younger officers.”
The new leadership will also push for the expedited resolution of grievances to “ensure fair and timely outcomes for members.”
“The stability of our departments relies on improved officer morale, securing pay and benefits competitive with mainland departments, and addressing the Tier 2 retirement issue that jeopardizes the tenure of younger officers,” said Faumuina. “By focusing on these priorities, proactively fostering open communication with both command staff and the community, we will build a more resilient police force for all of Hawaii.”
SHOPO represents more than 2,600 police officers in Hawaii.
