Eight officers sworn into new leadership positions at Kauaʻi Police Department

Friends, family members and colleagues gathered on Thursday at the Kaua’i War Memorial Convention Hall in Līhuʻe to celebrate the promotions of Kauaʻi Police Department Officer Brad Candido to lieutenant and seven other officers to sergeant.

“You now carry a greater responsibility,” Interim Police Chief Kalani Ke said.

Every man on the stage has earned their new position “through commitment, professionalism, sacrifice and proven ability,” Ke added.

“True leadership is revealed under pressure, and as you embark on this next chapter of your career, remember that you can leave the department better than you found it, but never forget that leadership is earned every single day.”

The promotions:

Lt. Brad Candido: He is a graduate of the 83rd Recruit Class, and began his career as a patrol officer. He served in that role until 2017, when he was promoted to the Vice and Narcotics Division. From 2021 to 2024, he advanced through the ranks and was appointed sergeant in the Office of Professional Standards in the Chief’s Office.

Candido thanked his family on Oʻahu for their unwavering support and for frequently flying to Kauaʻi to visit. He also acknowledged the sacrifices his wife, Sunnie, and their family have made throughout his 13-year career, dedicating his promotion to them in gratitude.

Sgt. Johnathan Anderson: He also is a graduate of the 83rd Recruit Class and a 13-year veteran of the department. He has served in the Patrol Services Bureau, as a field training officer, and on the Fugitive Apprehension Team. In addition to training new recruits, he serves in the Community Engagement Unit as a school resource officer, working closely with youth.

Anderson acknowledged his family and children for their patience, understanding and unwavering support through long hours, late nights and everything in between.

Sgt. Steven “Kai” Carvalho: Born and raised on Kauaʻi, Carvalho graduated from the 89th Recruit Class. Between 2017 and 2025, he advanced through the ranks, progressing from certified field training officer to a position in the Communications and Aerial Support Division.

For Carvalho, law enforcement is a family affair: his brother is an officer, and his mother works as a 911 dispatcher. He expressed his gratitude to his brothers and sisters in blue for their support and to his family for continually inspiring him.

Sgt. Jarred England: He is a graduate of the 93rd Recruit Class, beginning his career amid a global pandemic. Over his five years with the department, he has received several commendations within the Kawaihau District.

England expressed his gratitude to his family, especially his supportive wife, who has been the foundation of his success. He also acknowledged his mentors and colleagues for their support.

Sgt. Anthony “Kunane”Gayagas: He is a graduate of the 91st Recruit Class, and has spent the majority of his career assigned to the Līhuʻe District 2nd Watch, where he also served as a field training officer. He became a member of the Special Response Team in 2021, and over the past year served as the KPAL officer with the Community Engagement Unit.

Gayagas extended his deepest gratitude to his wife, Megan, his children, and his parents for instilling in him the values and morals that have guided his life. He is equally grateful to his brothers in blue, who continue to push him forward and deepen his commitment to his stripes.

Sgt. Eric Higa: He is a graduate of the 83rd Recruit Class, and has devoted his career to the Patrol Operations Bureau. He has served on both the Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team and the Special Response Team, and has also taken on additional roles such as officer in charge and field training officer.

Higa thanked everyone who contributed to his career growth, especially his children and wife, Tania, whose joy, strength, resilience, and unwavering support have helped him through the many challenges of his profession.

Sgt: Alexander Lacson Jr.: He is a graduate of the 88th Recruit Class, was born and raised on the Ninth Isle, also nicknamed Las Vegas. In 2017, he relocated to Kaua‘i, where he has dedicated his career to serving the Kawaihau District. Among his greatest honors are serving on the Crisis Negotiator Team, earning the Top Cop Achievement Award in 2024, and receiving recognition from Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Lacson is grateful for the people who surround and support him, especially his wife, Katrina, their son, and their two dogs. Above all, he gives glory to God for the many blessings in his life.

Sgt. Clayton Silva Jr.: He is a graduate of the 85th Recruit Class and has devoted his career to the Patrol Operations Bureau. As a field training officer, he mentors and develops new officers, and he serves as the primary officer in charge of the Kawaihau District A night unit. He is also on the Special Response Team.

Silva extends special thanks to his family, and most importantly to his wife, Marci, and their daughter, for the many sacrifices they have made and for their continued support.

Kaua’i County Mayor Derek Kawakami addressed the honorees, emphasizing humility, forgiveness and service.

“The only time it’s OK to look down on people,” Kawakami said, “is when you’re helping them back up.”

He added: “Leadership starts at home,” with a strong family foundation that helps officers lead more effectively in the community.

Combined, the eight officers bring decades of law enforcement experience to the Kauaʻi Police Department. Collectively, they have responded to thousands of calls for service, mentored younger officers, and played key roles in investigations and public safety efforts across the Garden Isle.

Individuals seeking a career change or a new path are encouraged to apply and join the Kaua‘i Police Department by clicking here.