Hawai’i Police Department’s Kona Community Policing Section hosted the inaugural Junior Police Officer (JPO) Day
On May 20th 2026, the Hawai’i Police Department’s Kona Community Policing Section hosted the inaugural Junior Police Officer (JPO) Day at the Kealakehe Police Station in Kailua-Kona. The event offered 47 local students & staff from Kahakai, Honaunau, & Holualoa Elementary Schools that have actively participated in the Junior Police Officer program throughout the 2025-2026 calendar school year a reward for their efforts. The station tour event was coordinated to educate community youth on departmental functions, foster positive relationships, inspire future public service careers and honor the dedication of our Junior Police Officer Students.
The Junior Police Officer (JPO) program teaches students responsibility, leadership, teamwork, communication, community service, safety awareness and problem-solving skills to include tasks such as, parking lot student drop-off safety monitor, playground and cafeteria monitoring and conflict resolution.
The day’s activities provided a well-rounded experience for the participating youths:
- Station Tour: Officers guided the Junior Police Officers through the Kealakehe facility, offering a firsthand experience at how Police Officers operate through daily tasks.
- Certificate Presentation: The highlight of the morning was the official certificate of achievement presented by Area II Assistant Chief Rio Amon-Wilkins to each Junior Police Officer for their hard work and dedication.
- Interactive Fingerprint Presentation: Evidence Specialist lead a hands-on workshop where students learned forensic techniques and processed their own fingerprints on various materials.
- K-9 Demonstration: The Hawaii Police Department VICE West & Juvenile Aid Section showcased K-9’s Amy & Tina by demonstrating how narcotics are tracked, & located as well as searching for lost individuals
- Lunch: Following the ceremonies, participants and officers relaxed and connected over a lunch provided by the Department and community partners.
The Hawai‘i Police Department remains committed to fostering community youth programs that build leadership skills, discipline, and positive decision-making abilities. Events like the JPO Fun Day would not be possible without the continued support of our dedicated officers, community volunteers, and supporting partners.
