Officer Scalzo Recognized as KPD’s August 2026 Employee of the Month
Published on August 28, 2026
LĪHU‘E- The Kaua’i Police Department (KPD) recognized Officer Jason Scalzo as the Employee of the Month for August during the monthly Police Commission Meeting held on Friday, August 28, 2026. Officer Scalzo was honored for his recent outstanding police work and steadfast dedication to safeguarding the community.
Chief of Police Rudy Tai stated, “I am pleased to congratulate Officer Scalzo for initiating an operation to capture wanted individuals threatening our community’s peace and safety. The results were exemplary.”
Officer Scalzo led an operation that resulted in the arrest of several people with outstanding bench warrants. These individuals were suspected of crimes that put public safety at risk and affected the community’s quality of life. Knowing they were still at large, Officer Scalzo proactively organized a team to respond, and within five hours of obtaining a special operations bench warrant, nine suspects were apprehended. No officers, citizens, or suspects were harmed. This quick and successful result shows strong planning, leadership, and professionalism.
“The tactics employed by Officer Scalzo emphasized officer and public safety while allowing the team to efficiently locate and arrest the individuals,” said Chief Tai. “His careful planning, situational awareness, and tactical decision-making helped ensure the operation was conducted safely, with no unnecessary risk of injury to officers or suspects.”
Officer Scalzo is further recognized for representing KPD well by building positive and trusting relationships in the local community. Community support is essential for good policing, and KPD is committed to building and maintaining strong connections with the people we serve.
Officer Scalzo shows leadership among his peers at KPD. He regularly shares his experience and practical knowledge with fellow officers, enabling them to identify potential risks, make informed decisions, and maintain vigilance during their duties. These attributes strengthen the entire department and help ensure that valuable experience is passed on.
Officer Scalzo consistently exemplifies the qualities expected of an outstanding police officer, including initiative, leadership, sound judgment, tactical awareness, teamwork, community trust, mentorship, and a steadfast commitment to officer and public safety. His dedication to proactive enforcement, cultivation of strong community relationships, commitment to mentoring less experienced officers, and consistent focus on public safety make him highly deserving of recognition as the KPD August Officer of the Month.
Looking for a meaningful career where your work makes a real impact? KPD is actively recruiting dedicated individuals to join our team. The salary for a police officer ranges from approximately $83,000 to over $118,000 and includes a robust benefits package. Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, and a minimum age of 20 years. Applicants should not have any misdemeanor, felony or domestic violence convictions. To learn more about qualifications and how to apply, visit joinkauaipd.com.
Officer Jason Scalzo (left) was recognized as the KPD August 2026 Employee of the Month by Chief of Police Rudy Tai (right).
KPD officers gather to honor Officer Jason Scalzo for being recognized as KPDʻs August 2026 Employee of the Month at the August 28, 2026 Police Commission Meeting in Līhuʻe.
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