HPD headed to Portland next month for recruiting trip

HONOLULU (KHON2) — It seems no one is immune to the recent work force shortage – not even the Honolulu Police Department.

The force is down about 20 percent of the officers it would like to have, so it’s going to the mainland to try and fill that gap.

Being a cop can be a tough, thankless job, but the Honolulu Police Department is looking for more good men and women.

“Our ideal candidate would be a professional individual with a strong moral compass who has a strong desire to make a difference in our community,” said Ofc. Brandon Cruz, of HPD’s recruitment unit.

Next month, HPD is going to Portland for a few days for an in-person testing and physical readiness assessment.

The goal being to attract more recruits to help fill the department’s 400 vacant officer positions.

“We’re hoping that by us meeting them that half way, it will crate more interest in them to be like ‘hey you know what, I’ll sign up and I’ll come take a test and I’ll see if I can get through'” said Ofc. Shellene Ozaki, of HPD’s recruitment unit.

In a statement, SHOPO President Robert Cavaco applauds the move, saying “in order to turn the tide on our staffing crisis, we need bold action to both recruit new officers and retain our experienced officers.”

This is the second trip to the continent for HPD recruiters this year. They say this Portland trip is attracting applicants from all over the country – California, Washington State, even as far as New York and Florida.

“If they’re going to the west coast or elsewhere across the U.S. to find locals, or non locals, who’d be interested in joining the police force in Honolulu, that’s a good thing,” said Doug Chin, Honolulu Police Commission Chair.

A starting officer’s pay is just under $84,000, which recruiters say is competitive with other departments. With bonuses, that number could reach close to $100,000 for a first year officer.

“It’s an awesome opportunity for guys to come back home , make some money here, and contribute to the welfare of the community,” said Ofc. Cruz.

HPD says it will continue to recruit the best for its police force. As for future mainland recruiting trips, officers say they will assess next month’s Portland trip and then decide what to do in the future.

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For more information visit the HPD Instagram page.