University of Hawaii defensive linemen Kennedy Tulimasealii and Kaaumoana Gifford have been arrested after one of them got into a scuffle with officers who had responded to a domestic disturbance call. ADVERTISING University of Hawaii defensive linemen Kennedy Tulimasealii and
University of Hawaii defensive linemen Kennedy Tulimasealii and Kaaumoana Gifford have been arrested after one of them got into a scuffle with officers who had responded to a domestic disturbance call.
Tulimasealii and Gifford were arrested at a Honolulu apartment complex on Tuesday. Tulimasealii is being investigated for abuse of a family member and Gifford was taken into custody for obstruction. The duo could face suspension, or possibly expulsion.
Tulimasealii is touted as the Rainbow Warriors’ top defensive lineman. Gifford started four games at defensive end last year.
Police say Tulimasealii had resisted arrest and that several officers joined the struggle to get the defensive lineman to the ground. Documents say the officers had reported that force was necessary because of Tulimasealii’s size. He is 6 feet tall and weighs 280 pounds.
UH football Coach Nick Rolovich said in a statement that the university is investigating the incident and “will make a decision at the appropriate time.”
“I also want to take this opportunity to say that when a student-athlete puts on a UH football uniform, they represent the team, the program, the university, the fans, and the entire state of Hawaii,” Rolovhich said. “We hold our players to high standards of conduct and we take that very seriously.”
