Three promoted at KPD

LIHU‘E — Thursday, the Kaua‘i Police Department promoted three officers at a ceremony at the Kaua‘i Veterans Center in Lihu‘e.

“The magnitude of what you’re about to encounter in this journey is unparalleled,” KPD Chief Todd Raybuck told the trio.

“Your willingness to accept this next level of responsibility shows your true character, and you all deserve a sincere congratulations. Please know that every last one of us, including your loved ones, are here to support you and help you succeed on this new path. I have no doubt you’re going to be upstanding leaders in this organization,” said Raybuck.

Philip K. Banquel was promoted to lieutenant. Banquel was born and raised on Kaua‘i. He graduated from Kaua‘i High School and later attended Kaua‘i Community College. He was hired at KPD in 2005. Banquel has served a multitude of roles throughout his time at KPD. He was promoted to sergeant in 2016 and was assigned to the Patrol Services Bureau in Lihu‘e. In 2019, he transferred to the Administrative and Technical Bureau’s School Resource Officer Unit to serve as the SRO Unit sergeant. He transferred to the Investigative Services Bureau Special Focus this year and was assigned to the Lihu‘e District as the property crimes detective.

Brad P. Candido was promoted to sergeant. Candido was born and raised on O‘ahu. He attended Damien Memorial High School in Honolulu and obtained a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from California State University in Sacramento. Candido moved to Kaua‘i in 2011 and was hired at KPD in 2012. His various assignments have included Hanalei patrol officer, Lihu‘e patrol officer and field training officer. Candido is currently in Vice/Narcotics.

Morris T. Unutoa was promoted to sergeant. Unutoa was born in California and attended Carson High School. He later graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. His wife and family moved to Kaua‘i in 2009 and he was hired by KPD in 2012. Morris has served in the Patrol Services Bureau as a patrol officer; in the Investigative Services Bureau as an SRO; in the Administrative and Technical Bureau assisting with training new recruits; and as a fleet coordinator. He also recently completed his term as Kapa‘a High School’s SRO.

Capt. Roderick B. Green was the master of ceremonies.

The pinning of the badges was preceded by a blessing by KPD Chaplain Jade Wai‘ale‘ale Battad. County Managing Director Michael Dahilig represented Mayor Derek Kawakami, and offered remarks.

“You, in reality, are the next generation of leaders for KPD. And with this leadership rank, your new frame of mind, your new way of thinking, new approaches to solving problems, and new life perspective, will start shaping this department almost immediately,” said Dahilig.

“As your skill as police officers and your role as men of the law evolves, so too will be your role as a leader for this storied institution.”