11-20-2008, 08:35 AM
Bob I would tell you they are understaffed, and underfunded. All LE agencies have this problem, but it can be addressed underfunded is the most serious. I would think the minimum patrol officer's they have is 200 using 12 hours shift(which most officers like) would mean 50 per shift, which should but at least 5 in Puna per shift. Now days off and sick leave could change that, also I don't know a thing about their work load so that must factor in. This is pure wag, but does sound like what they could really use is a outside review of policy and procedure. With a long established and entrenched department that will not be popular. From what I read of the 2 applicants you will get more of what you got now. What HPD needs is money and support. New blood at the top with new ideas is needed. I saw an article several months ago on hiring and it was real obvious that the training command didn't have a clue as what was going on with the mainland LEO's. An example, I was issued a 40 Cal. auto 10 years before I retired 5 years ago and he talked about wheel guns. California is a short flight and has some of the best LEO's in the world and training. Believe it or not the Military has some top notch people which would help for free. Never dismiss any source of help when you need it! HPD has a great advantage being the only Law Enforcement agency, it makes changes SOP to everyone. I think you have an excellent PD with some really great people just need a different direction. Also MONEY!!!!! can solve all, GOOD LUCK with that.
I like it here in the shallow end of the gene pool