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Molokai Boy at HPD Makes His Island Proud
A Molokai native police officer receives prestigious recognition for his outstanding service in 2025.
Mar. 20, 2026 at 8:38am
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A 27-year-old Molokai native, Dallas Arce, was named the 2025 Officer of the Year by the Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaii for his exemplary work as a Puna Patrol Officer with the Hawaii Police Department. Arce, a five-year veteran of HPD, was recognized for his initiative, leadership, and investigative skills, having received the Officer of the Month award three times in 2025 alone.
Why it matters
The award highlights the dedication and positive impact that local community members can have when they choose to serve their island and state as police officers. Arce's story also underscores the challenges officers face in gaining recognition for their work, as he notes that the public often overlooks the police in favor of firefighters, despite the two departments often working together.
The details
Arce was chosen as Officer of the Year by HPD's chief, deputy chief, and several upper-rank officers. In 2025, he received the Officer of the Month award three times - in March for an investigation leading to a 39-offense arrest, in September for two investigations involving a car theft/drug bust and a home burglary, and in December for catching Puna's most wanted suspect, arresting a car break-in suspect, and responding to a domestic incident where he talked down an intoxicated man threatening his family.
- In March 2025, Arce received the Officer of the Month award.
- In September 2025, Arce received the Officer of the Month award two additional times.
- In December 2025, Arce received the Officer of the Month award for the third time that year.
The players
Dallas Arce
A 27-year-old Molokai native who is a five-year veteran of the Hawaii Police Department's Puna Patrol and was named the 2025 Officer of the Year.
Reed Mahuna
The chief of the Hawaii Police Department who commended Arce for his exemplary work and commitment to protecting the Big Island community.
Kimo Alameda
The mayor of Hawaii County who thanked Arce and a Hawaii Fire Department battalion chief for their remarkable service and commitment to the safety and wellbeing of Big Island residents.
What they’re saying
“I just hope I made my island and my family proud.”
— Dallas Arce, Police Officer
“Officer Arce consistently demonstrates initiative and leadership, whether he is mentoring newer officers or pursuing complex investigations.”
— Reed Mahuna, Police Chief
“We are deeply grateful for their commitment to the safety of our residents and the wellbeing of their colleagues.”
— Kimo Alameda, Mayor
What’s next
The Hawaii Police Department will continue to recognize outstanding officers like Dallas Arce who demonstrate exemplary service and dedication to their communities.
The takeaway
Dallas Arce's story highlights the positive impact that local community members can have when they choose to serve their island and state as police officers, even in the face of public skepticism towards law enforcement. His recognition as Officer of the Year underscores the importance of acknowledging and supporting the hard work and commitment of officers who go above and beyond to protect and serve their communities.
