The State of Hawaii has no defined state police department. Instead, the Sheriff Division acts as the de facto State Police and is the oldest law enforcement agency within the state. This 2023 Best Dressed Public Safety Department winner has its history rooted in the monarchy of Hawaii under King Kamehameha III and was established in 1846, making the Sheriff Division the only law enforcement agency in the nation to have ever directly reported to a King. 

The Hawaiian Islands claim ten of the fourteen world climate zones and the environment is as diverse as its people, so uniforms had to be manufactured from materials that would be suitable for tropical and temperate environments. The department  has 325 deputies statewide and performs services such as judicial support, patrol of areas within State jurisdiction, executive protection (Governor and LT Governor’s protective details), canine operations, special operations, and investigations. All deputies are issued 3 sets of the standard class A uniform and 2 sets of the class B uniforms. Additionally, members of the Special Operations Section are issued 2 sets of class C Utility Uniforms.  The standard look consists of green trousers, silver tan shirts and brown campaign hats.

The entry process for the 2024 Best Dressed Public Safety Department competition as well as NAUMD’s other recognition programs will open late fall.  Check the website and keep reading The Pulse for updates.