Mayor Kawakami Honors KPDʻs Forensics Team

Published on September 24, 2026

LĪHU‘E – The Kaua’i Police Department (KPD), in partnership with the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations, announces National Forensic Science Week from Sept. 20-26, 2026. This is a time to highlight the field of forensic science and raise awareness about the scientific and procedural work done in support of criminal justice systems.

To celebrate National Forensic Science Week, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami issued a proclamation acknowledging the professionals of KPD’s Crime Scene and Laboratory Section and their important role in the community. Recognized for their contributions are Michaelyn Etrata, Criminalist III; Dr. Christian Vlautin, Criminalist II; and Sara Ormsby, Crime Scene Specialist Trainee.

“Criminologists and Crime Scene Specialists usually work in the background, yet their job is essential in the pursuit of justice,” stated Mayor Kawakami. “They are involved in a variety of important tasks such as documenting and preserving crime scenes, processing evidence, recovering fingerprints, gathering DNA, photographing important details, and collecting evidence.”

Every piece of evidence has a story to tell. It is the criminologists' duty to provide accurate, objective, and scientifically supported information to detectives, prosecutors, and the courts. Personnel must be properly trained to utilize validated methods, instruments, precise documentation, and robust quality practices to ensure that results are defensible.

“We are very thankful for the professionalism and dedication shown by the team in our Crime Scene and Laboratory Section,” said Chief of Police Rudy Tai. “They work countless hours, put in long nights, and process very difficult scenes. Their expertise is invaluable to the work we do at the Kauaʻi Police Department, and we are grateful for their dedication and commitment.”

For more information about National Forensic Science Week, visit https://thecfso.org/.  

From left to right: KPD Assistant Chief Makana Rivera; Dr. Christian Vlautin, Criminalist II; Michaelyn Etrata, Criminalist III; Sara Ormsby, Crime Scene Specialist Trainee;
Reiko Matsuyama, Managing Director, County of Kaua‘i.

KPD staff gather to celebrate team members of the Crime Scene and Laboratory Section during National Forensic Science Week, Sept. 20-26, 2026.

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