Two Hawai‘i County Police Department officers were arrested following their indictment by the Hawai‘i Attorney General’s office in connection with May 2023 searches of an arrestee’s belongings that violated constitutional protections.
Officer Noah Serrao, a six-year member assigned to Hilo Patrol, was charged with:
- perjury
- false swearing in official matters
- tampering with a government record
The charges stem from a May 26, 2023, incident in which Officer Serrao is alleged to have knowingly made false statements under oath after a detainee’s bag was searched without a search warrant or consent. He also tampered with an official government document.
Officer Blane K. Kenolio, also a six-year member assigned to Hilo Patrol, was charged with:
- tampering with physical evidence
On May 24, 2023, Officer Kenolio is alleged to have knowingly searched a detainee’s bag without a search warrant or consent.
The administrative investigation concluded in April 2024 with Officer Serrao suspended for 50 days and Officer Kenolio suspended for 24 days. Both officers were included in the department’s 2024 annual misconduct report to the state legislature and posted on the department’s website: 2024 Annual Misconduct Report.
Following their arrests yesterday, both officers were released on their own recognizance. They are scheduled to appear in Hilo Circuit Court today.
Both officers have been reassigned from patrol as their court proceedings continue.
HPD Photo