The Hāweo Award was presented on July 23 to Det. John Kari of the Hawaiʻi Police Department’s Area II Juvenile Aid Section during a ceremony at the Hawaiʻi County Council chambers in Hilo, recognizing his exceptional work on a child exploitation case.
The Hāweo Award is given to department employees who demonstrate outstanding performance, professionalism and a strong commitment to the community, according to the department.
Kari, a 13-year member of the force who has served the Area II Juvenile Aid Section for four years, has built a reputation as a diligent investigator focused on protecting children and supporting crime victims.
Hāweo Award recognizes swift action in urgent case
Officials said the award stems from Kari’s response to a complex, time-sensitive child exploitation investigation that began Oct. 31, 2025.
The case involved a man who allegedly traveled from Canada to Hawaiʻi after communicating online with a minor through a popular gaming platform.
Believing the suspect intended to leave the island on the next available flight, Kari worked into the evening to secure digital evidence and establish probable cause.
The following day, he coordinated with law enforcement partners at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport.
The suspect was located as he attempted to board a departing flight, and Kari responded immediately to take him into custody without incident.
The detective then obtained and executed multiple search warrants for communications and electronic data.
A thorough review and analysis of the material significantly advanced the investigation, according to the department.
A Hawaiʻi County grand jury later indicted the suspect on counts of first-degree sexual assault, first-degree promoting child abuse and third-degree promoting child abuse.
“Detective Kari’s professionalism, determination and attention to detail exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement,” Area II Juvenile Aid Lt. Brandon Mansur said in a department release, noting that Kari’s rapid assessment, coordination with partner agencies and comprehensive follow-up helped protect a vulnerable child.
Child exploitation cases often evolve quickly and require decisive action that both preserves evidence and safeguards victims.
Officials said Kari’s prompt response, meticulous investigative work and dedication to justice were key to moving the case forward.
The department said his actions reflect its core values of integrity, teamwork, compassion and service, and align with its mission to protect and serve the people of Hawaiʻi Island.
Those values are also central to community-focused organizations such as Child & Family Service, which support vulnerable children and families across the islands.
More information about the Hawaiʻi Police Department and its programs is available on the department’s official website.
