Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement director steps down; police major nominated as replacement
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Amid a slew of controversies, the director of Hawaii’s Department of Law Enforcement is stepping down, and a Honolulu Police Department major has accepted the position, HNN Investigates confirmed Tuesday.
On Wednesday morning, Gov. Josh Green announced the nomination of HPD Maj. Mike Lambert as the next DLE director.
“Mike Lambert has dedicated his career to protecting and serving the people of Hawaii with integrity and commitment,” said Green in a statement. “His deep understanding of public safety, combined with his ability to lead with compassion and innovation, makes him the ideal choice to lead DLE. I am confident he will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of our communities while upholding the highest standards of justice.”
Green also expressed his gratitude to Lowe for his service, confirming his departure from the department.
“Jordan has played an instrumental role in establishing the Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement as a standalone agency, ensuring a strong foundation for its mission of statewide public safety. His vision, dedication, and meaningful contributions have left an indelible mark on the department, and we thank him for his years of service to Hawaii,” Green said.
Lowe was appointed to the role in 2020. He oversaw the split of the Public Safety Department, when DLE became its own entity separate from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation in 2024.
As DLE director, there were multiple controversial issues he faced.
Last June, a civil lawsuit accused Lowe of ignoring sexual harassment complaints that a sheriff deputy made against former deputy director William Oku Junior. Oku Jr. was accused of making lewd comments about female coworkers and exposing himself on duty in 2022. When asked for comment on that lawsuit, the DLE declined to respond.
One month later, Lowe confirmed three separate criminal investigations involving nine sheriff deputies were opened; allegations included derogatory comments about gay people and racial harassment. One of the suspended deputies, Jordan Kagehiro, was found dead weeks later. Multiple reports said DLE supervisors were pressuring the 32-year-old about misconduct investigations.
The DLE has not provided an official reason for Lowe’s resignation.
Lambert issued a statement saying, “It is an honor to be nominated as Director of the State Department of Law Enforcement. I am committed to working collaboratively with our law enforcement partners, community leaders and residents to ensure a safer, stronger Hawaii. Together, we will address the challenges facing our state and build on the department’s foundation of excellence and accountability.”
State Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole, assistant majority whip, said he knows about Lambert’s work with homeless outreach as an HPD commander.
“He was very innovative,” Keohokalole said. “I do look forward to working with him and we got to keep going, you know, just ‘cause someone leaves doesn’t mean the problems go away.”
Lambert’s appointment still needs to be confirmed by the Hawaii State Senate. He’s expected to begin his new role effective Feb. 1.
Deputy Jared Redulla will serve as interim director in the meantime, the governor said.
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