LIHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) recognized Jason Scalzo as Officer of the Month during the Police Commission meeting held on Feb. 28 at the Mo‘ikeha Building.
He was commended for his work not only on-duty but off-duty as well. One particular example cited was how Scalzo was instrumental in the arrest of a male suspect who allegedly burglarized an Anahola home in September.
A report was made by residents that their home had been burglarized around 3:50 p.m. on Sept. 15. Since the home was equipped with video surveillance, officers were able to identify the male subject who had allegedly entered the home while the residents were inside and proceeded to take items, including a pistol and ammunition.
The male suspect had a history with KPD and was known to run from officers and physically resist being arrested. He was also not allowed to own or possess a firearm.
Therefore, officers were subsequently asked to be on the lookout for the suspect.
On Sept. 21 around 9:50 a.m., Officer Scalzo was in the Kapa‘a area during off-duty hours when he received information though his community contacts regarding the suspect’s location. He decided to travel to the location in his personal vehicle and confirmed that it was, indeed, the suspect.
He then contacted on-duty officers and alerted them to the suspect’s location.
When the suspect saw the uniformed officers arrive, he fled on foot, but Officer Scalzo remained in the area and was able to keep officers updated on the subject’s movements.
Because of Officer Scalzo’s actions, they were able to capture the subject.
“Officer Jason Scalzo has always taken a proactive approach to police work by cultivating a network of citizens who provide him with a wealth of information. The information that he gathers often leads to the apprehension of criminals and the recovery of stolen items,” said Lieutenant Darren Rose. “Officer Scalzo’s intelligence and humility are above average and because of this, he is a great asset to the Kaua‘i Police Department. Therefore, I would like to recognize him for his relentless pursuit of the capture of wanted criminals. The dedication he shows both on and off duty to the community he serves is beyond reproach.”
