Kauaʻi Police Officer Branden Barroga was recently named one of Hawaiʻi’s Top Cops at an awards ceremony in Honolulu.
Since 1984, TOP COP Hawai‘i has honored individuals from law enforcement and security agencies for exceptional service in the past year.
Barroga was honored for his outstanding service, initiative and dedication to public safety, a news release said.
The officer was recognized for his work on a complex stolen vehicle and firearms investigation that led to the apprehension of a wanted felon and the recovery of illegal narcotics, a loaded sawed-off shotgun and evidence linking the suspect to multiple felony investigations.
“Effective policing requires officers who take ownership, follow through and look for ways to make a difference beyond the immediate call,” Kauaʻi Police Chief Rudy Tai said in a press release. “Officer Barroga exemplifies that commitment and sets a strong example for his fellow officers.”
Since joining the department in 2021, Barroga has worked in patrol and investigative roles while also serving as a certified Field Training Officer, member of a Special Response Team and secretary of the Kauaʻi Chapter of the State of Hawaiʻi Organization of Police Officers.
From August 2025 through August 2026, Barroga responded to more than 1,700 calls for service, served as the primary officer in more than 325 investigations, and made more than 100 arrests, including arrests involving serious felony offenses.
He was named Employee of the Month in October 2025 and June 2026.
TOP COP Hawaiʻi is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing public safety by recognizing excellence in law enforcement and professional security and awarding scholarships to students studying criminal justice.
To learn more about this year’s TOP COP awards, visit https://topcophawaii.com/.
