Big Island officers who pleaded to perjury and evidence tampering keep their jobs
In May 2023 at the Hilo police station, Hawaii Police Department officer Blane Kenolio searched an arrestee's closed container without a warrant, then wiped it with alcohol solution to remove traces of the search; officer Noah Serrao made false statements about the search in a sworn affidavit to a judge. The state Attorney General charged both in January 2026. Kenolio pleaded no contest to evidence tampering and Serrao to felony perjury plus two misdemeanors. Judge Henry Nakamoto granted both deferred acceptance of their pleas, so their records can be cleared; Serrao got four years of supervision and 400 hours of community service over prosecutors' objection. HPD had suspended Serrao 50 days and Kenolio 24 days without pay. Both remain on full, unrestricted duty and may carry firearms. HPD said it expects officers to maintain the highest standards of integrity.
Serrao was suspended from duty for 50 days without pay for the incident, while Kenolio received a 24-day unpaid suspension.
I have learned from my mistakes, and I have taken full accountability and responsibility for my actions.
Kenolio searched a closed container found inside the arrestee's handbag without a warrant.
Deputy Chief Sherry Bird: the department expects its officers to maintain the highest standards of integrity.
In court: "I have learned from my mistakes, and I have taken full accountability and responsibility for my actions."
Not yet contacted for this story.
No outcome recorded yet.