LIHU‘E — Police Chief George Freitas was honored for his eight years of service as head of the Kaua‘i Police Department yesterday with a party held at the new Hale Maka‘i ‘O Kaua‘i police station. Approximately 50 people were on
LIHU‘E — Police Chief George Freitas was honored for his eight years of service as head of the Kaua‘i Police Department yesterday with a party held at the new Hale Maka‘i ‘O Kaua‘i police station.
Approximately 50 people were on hand, including KPD officers, members of the Kaua‘i Police Commission, the County Prosecutor’s office, and acting chief William Ihu, as well as officials from the mayor’s office and Freitas’ wife, Elizabeth, to eat cake and serenade the chief with “Aloha ‘Oe.”
“Thank you to the chief for everything done for KPD and the county. We wish Elizabeth and him the best,” said Gary Heu, the mayor’s administrative assistant, said on behalf of Mayor Bryan Baptiste.
“We’re not leaving Kaua‘i. This is our home. This is where our friends are. You are good people. Thank you very much. Let us celebrate our friendship,” said an emotional Freitas, before reverting back to his usual joking manner.
Led by Police Commissioner Victor Punua, all 50 people held hands and sang “Aloha ‘Oe.”
Freitas then came around and thanked everyone personally.
Freitas is receiving $200,000 “in compensation for retirement,” from the County of Kaua‘i.
“Chief Freitas has given eight years of dedicated service to the County of Kaua‘i and its people,” said Baptiste in a statement released when the police chief announced he was retiring earlier this month. “I wish him and his family all the best in whatever the future holds for them.” As for the future, Freitas said that he made no definite plans, although his wife said they are planning a trip to Italy in the near future.
