Kaua’i Police Department honors officers for excellence in service

The Kaua‘i Police Department honored several officers for their outstanding contributions to public safety at the Police Commission meeting on Friday.

Officer Alexander Lacson was named this year’s recipient of the TOP COP Award, presented annually by the Law Enforcement and Security Coalition of Hawaiʻi. This prestigious award recognizes law enforcement professionals who demonstrate exceptional professionalism, dedication and community service.

Over the past year, Lacson has excelled in his efforts to improve public safety, particularly in the areas of traffic enforcement and impaired driving prevention.

He made 26 arrests for operating a vehicle under the influence of intoxicants. He also issued 152 speeding and moving violations, 28 parking citations and 108 miscellaneous citations, while providing 125 verbal warnings to educate the public on traffic laws.

Lacson also mentored numerous new recruits as a field training officer. 

“Officer Lacson is truly exceptional,” Deputy Chief Mark Ozaki said. “His proactive approach to enforcement, strong leadership and passion for mentorship sets a high standard. We couldn’t be more proud of the positive impact he’s made, and will continue to make, in our department and community.”

In the Chris Santos Fugitive Operation, Officer Dustin Broad, Sgt. Brian Silva and Sgt. Anthony Abalos were honored with U.S. Marshals Service Awards for their outstanding contributions to his capture.

In September of 2023, Santos, a fugitive wanted for multiple violent crimes, posed a significant threat to public safety. He was captured on Sept. 17, 2023, following a 9-day multi-agency manhunt which resulted in an officer-involved shooting with federal law enforcement. He was arrested on charges relating to the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Kith Silva-Lacro of Kalāheo which occurred on Sept. 7 on Kahili Mountain Road.

His capture required an extensive, coordinated effort between the Kauaʻi Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other federal partners.

The three Kauaʻi police officers played key roles in the successful operation that ultimately led to Santos’s capture, despite his determined attempts to evade arrest. 

On Aug. 21, 2024, Broad, Silva and Abalos were honored in Washington, D.C., with the Distinguished Group Award presented by U.S. Marshals Director Ronald L. Davis. The award celebrated their critical role in apprehending a dangerous fugitive and safeguarding the community.

“These officers went above and beyond, working around the clock to pursue leads and ensure the suspect was apprehended,” Ozaki said. “This national recognition speaks volumes about their commitment to protecting the people of Kaua‘i and highlights the vital role of our partnering agencies.”