The police are law enforcement officers who usually take an oath (make a promise) to protect and serve their communities. Police officers—or collectively, police departments—enforce laws, investigate potential crimes, and make arrests.
In Hawaii, as in other states, police officers are sworn law enforcement officials who have taken an oath to protect and serve the public. They are responsible for enforcing state laws and local ordinances. The police departments in Hawaii have the authority to investigate crimes, conduct traffic stops, engage in community policing, and make arrests when there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed. Hawaii Revised Statutes provide the legal framework for police powers and responsibilities. Additionally, police conduct is also governed by federal laws, such as the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Police officers must adhere to these laws and regulations while performing their duties to ensure the rights of individuals are respected.