KPD Commends Officers for Exceptional Service and Leadership
LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) recognized Sergeant Brian Silva and Officer Joridan Sele as the Employees of the Month for February, honoring their exceptional dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public safety.
Sergeant Brian Silva
On January 12, 2026, Līhu‘e officers responded to a construction site near the Līhu‘e Airport regarding a woman who allegedly brandished a large knife and made threatening gestures toward workers. She then drove recklessly through the area before barricading herself inside her vehicle.
Upon arrival, officers confirmed the presence of a knife inside the vehicle. Recognizing the credible threat posed to those in the area, officers quickly established a perimeter and implemented a coordinated response to safely contain the situation.
Sergeant Silva applied crisis negotiation strategies to de-escalate what was a volatile and potentially violent encounter. Under his direction, officers eased their approach and maintained a safe distance, allowing him to negotiate with the suspect. With calm and steady communication, Sergeant Silva persuaded the woman to leave the vehicle. Officers were able to take her into custody without incident and secure the knife as evidence. Sergeant Silva’s leadership, composure, and crisis negotiation skills were instrumental in preventing potential injury, and exemplified compassion under pressure.
Officer Joridan Sele
Since transferring from the Honolulu Police Department and beginning patrol duties last year, Officer Sele has quickly distinguished himself as a proactive member of the department. In approximately six months of active service, Officer Sele initiated 107 arrests and 128 criminal charges, ranging from petty misdemeanors to felony offenses.
Of those arrests, 80 were warrant-related, which often require extensive follow-up and carry increased risk. In several instances, suspects fled on foot or attempted to harm officers to avoid arrest. Officer Sele consistently demonstrated persistence, sound judgment, and professionalism in safely locating and apprehending wanted individuals.
Notably, he located and arrested a suspect wanted on a $50,000 warrant after the individual barricaded himself inside a residence in Kalāheo, resolving the situation peacefully through effective communication. In a separate case, he apprehended a suspect wanted on a $100,000 felony warrant involving arson and violent offenses after the individual had been actively evading police. He also assisted in the apprehension of a stolen vehicle suspect who fled on foot, resulting in multiple felony charges. Officer Sele’s work ethic and commitment to holding offenders accountable make him a valued member of the department and the community.
“Sergeant Silva used his 25 years of experience to guide his team through a high-risk situation,” said Chief Kalani Ke. “Officer Sele hit the ground running, taking proactive steps to remove dangerous individuals from our neighborhoods. Much of what they do happens behind the scenes, but their leadership, commitment, and integrity strengthen our department and our community every day. We are proud to recognize their exceptional service.”
During the Kaua‘i Police Commission meeting on February 27, 2026, the commission formally commended Sergeant Brian Silva and Officer Joridan Sele for their service and commitment to the people of Kaua‘i.
Ready to make a 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.
Chief Kalani Ke and Sergeant Brian Silva at the Kaua‘i Police Commission meeting on February 27, 2026.
Chief Kalani Ke and Officer Joridan Sele at the Kaua‘i Police Commission meeting on February 27, 2026.
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