Yesterday, Hawaiʻi County Police Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz released the following statement reaffirming his commitment to Hawaiʻi Island:

“After careful reflection and consideration, I made some decisions earlier this month that I now realize were premature. For that, I am truly sorry. I deeply regret that my actions over the past few weeks have caused pain and confusion for so many people. I take full responsibility for my decisions and actions, and I hope to demonstrate through my actions that I remain fully committed to our shared future.

When I arrived in January 2023, the men and women of the Hawai‘i Police Department welcomed me with open arms, entertained my new ideas for running the department, and helped me to realize that the community policing model we have here is second to none. Together, we have achieved success on numerous fronts, modernized the department and found solutions to situations that benefit everyone  There have been challenges along the way, but no matter who has been involved, we have always found a way to move forward together.

Despite the events of the past few weeks, my heart and my long-term commitment remain here, in service to the Big Island. This community has given me the honor of leading a department filled with hardworking, dedicated professionals. I am committed to supporting our Big Island communities and to continuing to build trust, safety, and accountability with the residents of Hawai‘i County. The communities that we all serve deserve committed leadership. If the Hawai‘i Police Commission and the community they represent can find it in their hearts to give me a second chance to demonstrate this commitment, I pledge to remain the Chief of Police here for years to come. I would love to stay here, as your Chief, and would publicly commit to not applying to be the Chief anywhere else.”

HPD Photo