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Elliot Ke named Interim Kaua‘i Police Chief
LĪHUʻE, Kauai (KHON2) — The Kaua'i Police Department marked a major leadership transition this week as longtime officer Elliott Kalani Ke officially stepped into the role of Interim Police Chief.
Kauaʻi commission begins search for next Police Chief
A Change of Command ceremony was held June 12 at the Kaua'i Veterans Center to recognize the change and reflect on the service of outgoing Chief Todd Raybuck.
Raybuck, who has led the department since 2019, announced his departure after more than five years at the helm. During the ceremony, he shared gratitude for his time on the island and praised the department's progress during his tenure.
'Serving as Kaua'i's Police Chief has been the greatest honor of my professional career,' Chief Raybuck said. 'This community welcomed me with open arms and I will forever be grateful for the aloha, the lessons and the spirit of service shared by the men and women of KPD. I leave knowing the department is in good hands.'Representing Mayor Derek Kawakami at the ceremony was former KPD Chief Michael Contrades, who emphasized Raybuck's efforts in modernizing department operations, improving training and expanding community engagement.
The event also introduced Interim Chief Elliott Ke, a Kaua'i native who has been with the department since 1999.
Ke has worked his way through the ranks, holding multiple leadership roles including Assistant Chief and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy.
'I am humbled and honored to take on this responsibility,' Chief Ke said. 'My priority is to continue to provide the highest level of service to our Kaua'i community and the island we call home.'
Contrades added that Ke's rise from patrol officer to Interim Chief shows not only his experience but his deep-rooted connection to the island and its people.
His leadership, officials say, will focus on continuing transparency, integrity and community-based policing.
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Although Mayor Kawakami could not attend, he issued a statement thanking Raybuck for his service and congratulating Ke on his appointment, offering full support from the County of Kaua'i.
Chief Ke will lead the department while the county begins its formal search for a Police Chief.
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