HONOLULU — The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) is celebrating a significant milestone as it prepares to welcome two of its largest graduating classes in recent years. These events highlight the department’s ongoing commitment to training and developing skilled law enforcement professionals who are dedicated to serving the community with integrity and care.
The 217th recruit class will graduate on Friday, October 23, at 6 p.m. at the Moanalua High School Performing Arts Center. This group includes 21 recruits—17 men and four women—who have successfully completed the rigorous training program. Their graduation marks the culmination of months of hard work, discipline, and dedication to becoming sworn officers.
In addition to the 217th class, two additional graduates from the Kauai and Alaska police departments also completed their training and graduated on Monday, October 20. These individuals were part of a special program that allowed them to complete a shortened curriculum, reflecting HPD’s flexibility and willingness to adapt to different needs within the law enforcement community.
“We’re always proud of our recruits who make it all the way through the program,” said Interim Deputy Chief Aaron Takasaki-Young. “That means we’re putting the right people in the right place. They understand the responsibility of being an officer and take it seriously.”
The 219th recruit class, which began training on October 20, represents another major step forward for HPD. This class is the largest since the 218th class, with 40 recruits total—37 men and three women. This increase in numbers reflects the department’s efforts to expand its workforce and meet the growing demands of public safety in Honolulu.
“HPD has been working on several initiatives since 2024, and we’re seeing positive results in terms of recruitment and retention,” said Major Parker Bode, head of HPD’s Human Resources Division. “These programs provide individuals with multiple pathways into the department while offering the guidance they need to become outstanding officers who are ready to serve and protect with aloha.”
The 219th class is expected to graduate in May 2026, continuing the tradition of excellence and service that HPD is known for. The department is also exploring innovative ways to enhance its operations, including the potential use of artificial intelligence in body-worn cameras. This initiative aims to improve transparency, accountability, and efficiency in police work.
For those interested in witnessing the graduation ceremony, the event will be available for viewing on the HPD’s YouTube page. This provides an opportunity for family, friends, and members of the public to celebrate the achievements of these new officers.
As HPD continues to grow and evolve, it remains focused on building a diverse and capable force that reflects the communities it serves. The department’s commitment to training, innovation, and community engagement ensures that it is well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern law enforcement while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and service.
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