In his final hour before retirement, Police Chief Todd Raybuck turned over the leadership of the Kauai Police Department to Interim Chief Kalani Ke during the KPD Change of Command ceremony Thursday at the Kauai Veterans Center.
“It’s not 4 o’clock yet,” said Deputy Chief Mark Ozaki, who emceed the ceremony. “Todd Raybuck is still my boss for another hour, and Kalani Ke doesn’t take command for another hour. I have the power, and I can deviate from the program if I want to.”
The deviation was enough to allow the KPD to present Raybuck with a Certificate of Appreciation for his accomplishments during his tenure as chief, which started six years ago. Kim Tamaoka, the chief’s secretary, also used the time to present maile lei to both Raybuck and Ke.
“Chief Raybuck’s tenure was marked by tremendous progress in modernizing the department, strengthening training programs, and embracing new ways of connecting with both technology and youth,” said Michael Contrades, representing Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami who was in Washington, D.C., with Hawaii on the Hill.
During farewell remarks that were marked with periods of emotion, Raybuck reflected on his time with the Kauai community.
“Serving as Kauai’s police chief has been the greatest honor of my professional career,” Raybuck said. “This community welcomed me with open arms, and I will forever be grateful for the aloha, the lessons, and the spirit of service shared by the men and women of KPD. I leave knowing the department is in good hands.”
Ke and Ozaki lead the “leadership team” that lead the KPD team that was encouraged by Police Commission Chair Walton Hong to continue the good work standards established under Raybuck’s leadership.
Ke is a Kauai native and a veteran of KPD since 1999, after graduating with Ozaki in the 69th Police Recruit Class. During his time with the department, Ke has held multiple leadership roles including assistant chief, and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy.
“I am humbled and honored to take on this responsibility,” Ke said, emphasizing his commitment to building on the department’s progress and deepening community trust. “My priority is to continue to provide the highest level of service to our Kauai community and the island we call home.”
Contrades, on behalf of Kawakami, extended the mayor’s aloha and gratitude to both leaders.
“Chief Ke’s journey from patrol officer to the helm of KPD is a reflection of his steadfast dedication in public service and the people of Kauai,” Contrades said. “His leadership will be grounded in experience, integrity and a deep understanding of our island.”
“On behalf of the County of Kauai, we thank Chief Raybuck for his outstanding service and congratulate Chief Ke as he steps into this vital role with strength and humility,” the mayor’s representative said.
Source: The Garden Island
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