Two Hawaii Police Department officers were arrested Tuesday afternoon following their indictment by a Hilo grand jury for allegedly violating an arrestee’s constitutional protections during a search of the individual’s belongings.
Officer Noah Serrao, a six-year member assigned to Hilo Patrol, was charged with perjury, false swearing in official matters and tampering with a government record.
Officer Blane K. Kenolio, also a six-year member assigned to Hilo Patrol, was charged with tampering with physical evidence.
The charges stem from a May 26, 2023, incident in which Serrao is alleged to have knowingly made false statements under oath after a detainee’s bag was searched without a search warrant or consent. He is also accused of tampered with an official government document.
Two days prior, on May 24, 2023, Kenolio is alleged to have knowingly searched a detainee’s bag without a search warrant or consent.
“We hold our officers to the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability,” said Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna. “To that end, when we became aware of this incident in 2023, we immediately investigated both officers criminally and administratively.”
The administrative investigation concluded in April 2024 with Serrao suspended for 50 days and Kenolio suspended for 24 days.
Both officers were included in the department’s 2024 annual misconduct report to the state Legislature and posted on the department’s website under 2024 Annual Misconduct Report.
“The criminal investigation was ultimately forwarded to the Attorney General’s office,” said Mahuna. “We thank them for their efforts in bringing this case to its conclusion.”
Following their arrests late Tuesday afternoon, both officers were released on their own recognizance — a form of cashless bail.
They are scheduled to appear at 1 p.m. Wednesday in Hilo Circuit Court.
Both officers have been reassigned from patrol as their court proceedings continue. They, as all defendants, are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
“We commend the Hawaii Police Department for their proactive partnership and commitment to upholding the law,” said Hawaii Attorney General Anne Lopez. “By working closely with our office on this investigation, they have demonstrated transparency, accountability and dedication to maintaining public trust while continuing to serve their communities with professionalism every day.”
