Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Monday, November 25, 2024 72° Today's Paper


Top News

SHOPO President Maafala retiring next month

CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / 2017

Sgt. Tenari Maafala has been president of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers for 18 years.

The president of Hawaii’s police union is retiring.

Sgt. Tenari Maafala told The Associated Press today he’s retiring next month from the Honolulu Police Department. He’ll also step down as president of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers.

Maafala’s retirement after nearly 30 years on the force comes after the department’s new chief reassigned him and other union leaders. Maafala had been in a unit that provides peer support and counseling for officers, their families and civilian staff members experiencing trauma and grief. He was reassigned to patrol Waikiki.

Maafala says his retirement has nothing to do with the reassignment.

The union filed a complaint that says the department can’t arbitrarily reassign a union official without cause.

Maafala has been president of the union for 18 years.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.