LIHUE — Five Kauai Police Department officers were honored for their swift actions during an award ceremony on Friday.
KPD Sergeant David Phillips, along with Officer Creighton Tamagawa, Officer Isaiah Sarsona, Officer Zachariah Smith, and Officer Vernon Basuel, were acknowledged for their life-saving actions during the Kauai Police Commission monthly meeting on April 25.
The commission stated that on Thursday, April 3, 2025, officers responded to a call regarding an individual suffering from multiple life-threatening, self-inflicting wounds.
First on the scene was Officer Tamagawa, who immediately administered first aid to the victims’ severe injuries. Officer Smith then quickly secured a weapon found at the scene and assisted in stabilizing the victim. Officer Sarsona then swiftly wrapped a blanket on the victim’s wound and applied pressure while also de-escalating the intense scene by a highly agitated relative. At the same time, Officer Basuel acted with foresight by clearing access for arriving paramedics and guiding them swiftly to the subject, saving precious minutes.
In honor of their outstanding performance, Sgt. Phillips and Officers Tamagawa, Sarsona, Smith, and Basuel were recognized as employees of the month for April 2025. KPD Chief Todd Raybuck stated, “These officers exemplify the very best of public service,” said Chief Raybuck.
“Their rapid, coordinated, and decisive actions provided essential care that ultimately saved this individual’s life. Their teamwork in an incredibly high-stress situation is a powerful reminder of the dedication our officers bring to every call.”
The officers also received a certificate, and a KPD lei coin was draped over them to celebrate their exceptional service in law enforcement. The wood-engraved lei is given to KPD officers as a symbol of honor, respect, and enduring appreciation and a reflection of the dedication to the service they provide to the community.
