Department of Law Enforcement to implement body-worn cameras for Sheriffs, several divisions

HONOLULU (KHON2) — It was a close call for deputy sheriffs during Thursday’s Waianae barricade situation. Now, the Department of Law Enforcement is looking at ways to improve by looking at new training and implementing new equipment. That includes the addition of body-worn cameras for sheriffs.

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The DLE said sheriffs are mandated to execute evictions, conducted by its special operations division.

“It can be very unpredictable and it can turn volatile in a split second,” said Jordan Lowe, Department of Law Enforcement Director.

Court documents detailed the tense moments between sheriffs and the suspect in the barricade situation. Documents stated that a week before the barricade, Howard Abraham threatened deputies and said ‘I’m not leaving. If you come back, there’s going to be bloodshed.’

On Thursday, court documents said sheriffs executed the eviction, but when they entered the residence authorities said Abraham fired multiple arrows nearly missing two deputies.

The DLE said the special operations division is highly trained for these incidents but is looking at ways to improve.

“We will be implementing a body-worn camera program probably within the next six months,” Lowe said.

The department already has the cameras and said the devices aren’t just for sheriffs. DLE said, its criminal investigation division, narcotics enforcement, and Office of Homeland Security will also receive the cameras. DLE added that the policy will be similar to other law enforcement agencies.

“It’s just a matter of when we can deploy it and how we’re going to implement it with our new report management system and our computer-assisted dispatch system,” said Lowe.

DLE added that sheriffs already carry firearms and long guns when needed, in addition to non-lethal tools like pepper spray and electric guns.

“We will look at whether there’s different equipment needs. Look at how there might be additional training on new tactics that might be deployed in the future,” Lowe said.

The department said law enforcement is always changing and is committed to exploring available tools and how to be better.