Kaua‘i Detective Honored as One of Hawai‘i’s Top Cops
LĪHU‘E – Detective Hanson Hsu was honored last week at the 40th Annual TOP COP Hawai‘i Awards ceremony in Honolulu.
Presented since 1984, the awards are among the state’s highest distinctions for law enforcement, commending officers who demonstrate extraordinary courage, skill, and dedication to keeping their communities safe.
A veteran investigator with the Kaua‘i Police Department’s (KPD) Criminal Investigations Division, Detective Hsu is known for his methodical case work, relentless pursuit of justice, and leadership qualities. Whether leading major crime investigations or supporting his colleagues behind the scenes, he brings a calm, focused presence and positive attitude to every assignment. Beyond investigative duties, Detective Hsu fills some of KPD’s most specialized and high-risk roles. As one of the department’s two certified bomb technicians, he also serves with the Hawai‘i Inter-Island Bomb Squad, helping safely recover and neutralize explosives across the state. Additionally, he is a longtime member of KPD’s Special Response Team, trained to handle challenging operations.
In June 2025, Detective Hsu was deployed to Hawai‘i Island to support a multi-agency investigation involving a stockpile of illegal weapons, explosives, and a methamphetamine conversion lab. Working alongside federal and local bomb technicians, he helped safely recover pipe bombs and other volatile materials including powders and chemicals commonly used to make homemade bombs. This exemplifies the complex and often unseen work Detective Hsu takes on as part of his commitment to keeping the community safe.
“Detective Hsu is the kind of officer every community hopes for,” said Deputy Chief Mark Ozaki. “Highly skilled, humble, and always putting others first. We’re incredibly proud to see him recognized as one of Hawai‘i’s Top Cops.”
Ready to make a real difference in your community? The Kaua‘i Police Department is hiring police officers, dispatchers, public safety workers, and other civil service positions. Officer salaries range from $76,000 to over $118,000, with a robust benefits package. To qualify for officer roles, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, be at least 20 years old, and have no misdemeanor, felony, or domestic violence convictions. Visit joinkauaipd.com for details and to apply.
Detective Hanson Hsu was honored as one of Hawai‘i’s Top Cops for his dedication and leadership in law enforcement.
Managing Director Reiko Matsuyama and Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami commend Detective Hsu for his exceptional service to the people of Kaua‘i.
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