Kona Crime Prevention Committee honors Ochoa

The Kona Crime Prevention Committee recognized Officer Mario Ochoa as “Officer of the Month” for March during a recent luncheon ceremony at Huggo’s restaurant in Kailua-Kona.

Ochoa was honored for his investigation of an automobile theft in January. On Jan. 19, he responded to a report from a man whose car keys were stolen from a locker while he was swimming at a public pool. The suspects drove away in the man’s car, taking his wallet and personal belongings.

A few hours later, Ochoa spotted the stolen vehicle and its three occupants in the parking lot of a food mart and he initiated a traffic stop.

The suspects were in possession of crystal methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Ochoa’s investigation revealed the suspects used the victim’s credit card and stole cash and other personal property.

The suspects were arrested and charged with two counts of unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle, two counts of unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle, two counts of promoting a dangerous drug, two counts of drug paraphernalia, two counts of unauthorized possession of confidential personal information, two counts of theft, theft/forgery of credit cards and promoting a detrimental drug.

Sgt. Akira Edmoundson, who nominated Ochoa for the honor, described him as someone who “has demonstrated a high level of investigative competence and initiative.”

Edmoundson noted, in addition to this incident, Ochoa investigated 30 incidents, nine traffic accidents and 31 miscellaneous public complaints in January. He also made 23 arrests and issued 73 traffic citations.

As “Officer of the Month,” Ochoa is eligible to become “Officer of the Year.”

The Kona Crime Prevention Committee is an organization that encourages community involvement in aiding and supporting police in West Hawaii.