The Law Enforcement and Security Coalition of Hawaii named SMP Hawaii as its 2023 Judge C. Nils Tavares Award Recipient. This 38th TOP COP Hawaii Awards event was held at the Ala Moana Hotel in October, recognizing local, state, federal and military law enforcement and security professionals who have distinguished themselves in the past year.
Named after the Maui-born judge who served on the U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii, this special award is presented to an outstanding organization that has tailored a program to bring about measurable change in the law enforcement community. SMP Hawaii, a volunteer-based program under the Hawaii Department of Health – Executive Office on Aging, assists and empowers kūpuna about healthcare fraud and scam prevention.
SMP Hawaii was one of four distinguished recipients: Safe and Sound Waikiki for Outstanding Organization; Governor Josh Green, MD, for the Elwood J. McGuire Award; and Lee Donohue, Sr., for Lifetime Achievement. A total of 39 other agencies received recognition for their selfless service in resolving life-threatening situations.
Twenty-four sponsors made possible the annual event with 310 people in attendance. Sponsors include ASIS International – Hawaii Chapter, the world’s largest membership organization for security management professionals and the International Association of Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS), which is solely dedicated to security and safety professionals in our healthcare facilities.
Coalition President Jeremiah Pahukula, Jr, says, “Team Members are apprehending criminals and saving lives. These acts of heroism must be recognized as an example to follow. However, our TOP COP’s actions need not be heroic. Perhaps the TOP COP developed a procedure that has resulted in cost savings or took on a difficult assignment and delivered. Our recognition program demonstrates our commitment to the safety and security of our island home and we are grateful to each TOP COP for their dedication, professionalism and courage to protect Hawaii.” Pahukula heads the eight-member Executive Board of the Coalition. SMP Hawaii thanks the Coalition for this distinguished honor and recognition.
To learn more about this Coalition, events and services, please visit: https://topcophawaii.com/
Coalition President Jeremiah Pahukula, Jr.with SMP Hawaii Director Norma Kop and Volunteer Mae.
Coalition President Jeremiah Pahukula, Jr. and Executive Board Director Joseph Cabrejos congratulate SMP Hawaii Director Norma Kop and its Volunteers.
The 2023 TOP COP Hawaii Awardees with the Executive Board of the Law Enforcement and Security Coalition of Hawaii.
