Coming Together for a Safer West O‘ahu

Last night, your Kānehili leadership attended Senator Samantha Decorte’s first town hall, and we’re so glad we did. The room was full of neighbors, farmers, community leaders, and law enforcement — all there because we care about the safety of our families, our land, and our way of life.

Kānehili and Kaupe‘a residents attended the town hall together on behalf of the community to listen to area leaders.

Gun violence and crimes against farmland were the big topics, and the conversations hit close to home. We were heartbroken to hear again about the loss of rancher Cranston “Duke” Pia, a tragedy that still weighs heavily on the community. His family’s call for stronger enforcement of laws protecting agricultural land is something we wholeheartedly support.

We were encouraged to hear from HPD’s interim chief, Rade Vanic, that District 8 will be getting 12 permanent officers — a much-needed boost for ʻEwa to Makaha. There’s also $1.7 million allocated for the upgrade of the Waianae police station, including the establishment of a new Criminal Investigative Division by fall 2026. These steps are important, but we all know real change takes all of us working together.

If you see or hear anything that could help protect our farms and ranches, please use the anonymous tipline at (808) 427-3323. This is our home, and we have a responsibility — a kuleana — to look out for each other. We left the meeting feeling hopeful that when we come together, we can keep Waianae strong, safe, and rooted in aloha.

Watch the Hawaii News Now story here.