Officers Recognized for Outstanding Police Work
Published on June 26, 2026
LĪHU‘E – The Kaua’i Police Department (KPD) honored Employees of the Month for their outstanding police work and engagement within the community during the Kaua’i Police Commission meeting held on Friday, June 26, 2026. Officer Branden Barroga was honored for exemplary work performance in March 2026, and Officer James Gause Jr. was recognized for notable achievements throughout the past year.
Officer Branden Barroga
Officer Barroga was commended for his outstanding performance and proactive policing efforts in March 2026, responding to an impressive 179 calls for service and bringing about 29 arrests. This work resulted in a total of 32 charges being filed. Notably, his enforcement activity included the successful execution of multiple high-risk warrants totaling $50,000. When a case involving persistent phone and online harassment presented itself to the department, Officer Barroga demonstrated the initiative and investigative skills for which KPD is known. He proactively prepared multiple search warrants for digital records, leading to the successful identification of a suspect. Officer Barroga’s commitment to community policing, reducing criminal activity, and protecting the public is to be commended.
Officer James Gause Jr.
Officer Gause was recognized for leading community engagement in Kaua’i’s schools through the new ‘Lunch with a Cop’ program. This program allows KPD officers to spend quality time with elementary-aged students during their lunch break, aiming to break down barriers and foster positive relationships between youth and law enforcement. Officer Gause led the coordination of Lunch with a Cop at Kekaha, ‘Ele’ele, and Kōloa elementary schools. Each event was extremely successful, with KPD officers encouraging students to ask questions in a relaxed and open setting. Thanks to Officer Gause’s leadership, the program is expected to expand across the island.
Chief Rudy Tai expressed pride in the department's Employees of the Month, stating, “Community engagement encompasses effective and fair policing, as well as collaborating with Kauaʻi's youth to cultivate the next generation of law enforcement officers. I am extremely proud of Officers Barroga and Gause for their efforts, and I hold them up as examples of excellent performance within KPD.”
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.
From left to right: Officer James Gauss Jr., Chief Rudy Tai, Officer Branden Barroga.
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