Excellence in action: Kaua‘i Police Department honors Employees of Month

Several Kaua‘i Police Department employees were recently honored as Employees of the Month for October, November and December during this month’s Kaua‘i Police Commission meeting.

“These recognitions reflect the kind of work our employees do every day,” said Interim Kaua‘i Police Chief Kalani Ke. “Often serving in challenging circumstances, much of the work they do goes unseen. Whether it’s recovering illegal firearms or caring for those in crisis, I am incredibly proud of their dedication and say mahalo to the families whose support makes their service to our community possible.”

Officers Kevin Kamakahi and Branden Barroga

Officers Kevin Kamakahi and Branden Barroga were named October 2025 Employees of the Month for their outstanding investigative work and dedication to public safety.

Kamakahi responded Aug. 1 to the report of a stolen vehicle in the Līhu‘e area. Officers identified a suspect through witness interviews and later located the vehicle abandoned at the base of a 60-foot cliff.

The suspect was located by Kamakahi, Barroga and Līhu‘e patrol officers inside another vehicle the following day in a residential area. The suspect was safely detained without incident.

Officers also recovered a loaded firearm and illicit drugs from the individual.

A subsequent search warrant executed by Barroga resulted in the recovery of additional narcotics, ammunition and evidence connected with multiple felony cases.

Kamakahi and Barroga — through their proactive and coordinated efforts — were able to establish the suspect’s involvement in other investigations and prevent further distribution of illegal drugs and firearms in the community.

Public Safety workers Ernest Ganiron and Ronald Aceret

Public Safety workers Ernest Ganiron and Ronald Aceret were honored as November 2025 Employees of the Month for their exceptional professionalism and devotion to serving others.

Public Safety workers oversee the well-being and safety of people detained in Kaua‘i Police Department cellblock, ensuring a secure environment while managing the day-to-day needs of those in custody.

A member of the public reached out Oct. 21 to express gratitude for the support received from Ganiron and Aceret during a challenging period.

The person reported becoming sober, gaining employment and securing stable housing, attributing these positive changes to the encouragement provided by Ganiron and Aceret.

Ganiron and Aceret — through intentional care and empathy — exemplify the profound impact their role has within public safety, guiding those they serve toward meaningful, lasting change.

Officer Desmond Thain

Officer Desmond Thain was honored as December 2025 Employee of the Month for his investigative excellence and proactive service.

Thain’s observations in a recent case led to the seizure of a vehicle containing a loaded firearm, ammunition and illicit drugs. He successfully resolved a complex credit card fraud case spanning multiple locations in another investigation, resulting in the suspect’s arrest.

He also played an important role in maintaining the safety of Kaua‘i’s roadways by arresting more than 20 drivers for operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant so far this year.

Thain also was honored last year by Mothers Against Drunk Driving and Hawai‘i Department of Transportation for his critical role in reducing injuries and fatalities caused by drunk and drugged driving, demonstrating his consistent and proactive efforts to enhance roadway safety.