Hawaiʻi County Police Department Appoints First Female Assistant Chief
Hilo, HI – In a historic move, the Hawaiʻi County Police Department has announced the appointment of Major Sherry Bird as its first female Assistant Chief. This landmark decision reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion within its leadership ranks.
Major Bird, a 23-year veteran of the force, has an extensive and distinguished career. Her previous assignments include serving as a Patrol Officer in the North Kohala and Kona districts, Officer in the Criminal Intelligence Unit, Detective in Area II Vice (Kona), Lieutenant in Area II Vice, Lieutenant in Area II Criminal Investigation Division, and Patrol Captain for the South Kohala district. In March 2021, she was promoted to the rank of Major and assigned to the Area II Field Operations Bureau, overseeing the department’s West Hawaiʻi districts.
This promotion is particularly significant as it marks the first time in the department’s history that a female officer has ascended to the rank of Assistant Chief. The last time a woman held a comparable upper management position was in 1994 when Major Cheryl Reis retired.
Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz, who was appointed in January 2023, expressed his enthusiasm for the promotion, stating, “Major Bird has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication throughout her tenure with the department. Her promotion to Assistant Chief is a testament to her hard work and the progressive direction in which our department is heading.”
The Hawaiʻi County Police Department has been making strides in recent years to promote qualified female officers into leadership roles. In March 2021, alongside Major Bird’s promotion, Captain Aimee Wana, a 25-year veteran, was also elevated to the rank of Major and assigned to the department’s Administrative Bureau. This was the first time in the department’s history that two female officers held the rank of Major simultaneously.
The significance of these promotions extends beyond individual achievements. They represent a broader cultural shift within the department, emphasizing the importance of diversity in leadership positions. By breaking these historical barriers, the department aims to inspire future generations of female officers to pursue and attain leadership roles within law enforcement.
Community leaders and residents have lauded the department’s decision. Mayor Mitch Roth commented, “This is a proud moment for our county. The appointment of Major Bird as Assistant Chief not only recognizes her exemplary service but also underscores our commitment to equality and representation within our institutions.”
Assistant Chief Bird expressed her gratitude and vision for her new role, stating, “I am deeply honored by this appointment and the trust placed in me. I look forward to working collaboratively with our officers and the community to continue enhancing public safety and fostering a department culture that values diversity, integrity, and excellence.”
As Assistant Chief, Bird will oversee critical aspects of the department’s operations, including strategic planning, community outreach, and officer training programs. Her leadership is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives and initiatives aimed at strengthening the relationship between the police department and the diverse communities it serves.
The Hawaiʻi County Police Department’s commitment to diversity is not only a reflection of its internal values but also aligns with broader national conversations about the role of law enforcement in society. By promoting leaders who embody the principles of service, integrity, and inclusivity, the department is setting a precedent for progressive policing practices.
In conclusion, the appointment of Sherry Bird as the first female Assistant Chief in the Hawaiʻi County Police Department’s history is a milestone achievement. It signifies the department’s dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive leadership team, poised to meet the evolving needs of the community with compassion, professionalism, and respect.
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