One of the few remaining items needing attention by Police Chief Todd Raybuck before Thursday was the administering of oath to three graduates of the 101st Police Recruit Class on Monday at the Kauai Veterans Center.
Raffy Perono, a Kapaa High School graduate, as well as Trejontierre Juniel and Summer Juniel, a husband-and-wife duo born in California, became the three latest Kauai Police Department officers following their graduation.
Raybuck said that from Wednesday, each of the graduates will be assigned a field training officer when they report for work in the next phase of becoming a full-fledged police officer.
“As you begin this career, remember that every time you wear this badge, you stand as a protector and role model for our community,” Raybuck said. “You are now part of something larger than yourself. Congratulations, and welcome to the team.”
Perono, who moved to Kauai when he was 6, grew up in the Wailua area. During the course of the 23-week class, Perono earned recognition for academics and physical fitness as deemed by the KPD teaching cadre.
Trejontierre Juniel, who moved to Kauai in support of his wife and his desire to have their children grow up in a connected, tight-knit community, was lauded as the best marksman and the best overall cadet.
Summer Juniel moved to Kauai to be closer to family, and there was no shortage of people who stepped forward to pin her badge during the rite of passage.
Kauai Emergency Management Agency Director Elton Ushio delivered remarks from Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami who is in Washington, D.C., with the Hawaii on the Hill event, and Managing Director Reiko Matsuyama was detained on Oahu with “Kauai business.”
Graduation officiant KPD Chaplain Jade Waialeale Battad said she’s always recruiting new officers.
Recruitment for the force is ongoing. The salary for a police officer ranges from approximately $72,000 to more than $118,000 and includes a robust benefits package. Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license and a minimum age of 20 years. Applicants should not have any misdemeanor, felony or domestic violence convictions.
For more information, visit www.joinkauaipd.com.
