Posted on: Friday, June 3, 2005

Officer's weapons seized in probe

By Peter Boylan
Advertiser Staff Writer

Federal agents searched the home of a Honolulu police officer for a second time last week, confiscating a cache of firearms.

The search was part of an ongoing federal probe of allegations that Honolulu police officers helped set up and protect illegal cockfights in exchange for items of value. The officers allegedly helped to facilitate and protect large cockfighting derbies, which also featured other forms of gambling including card and dice games.

The officer is one of six whose homes have been searched as part of the probe. No arrests have been made.

FBI Special Agent Arnold Laanui confirmed that agents executed a search warrant last week but declined further comment. Agents confiscated the officer's weapons May 23, after receipts taken from the officer's home during a March search indicated he had a large gun collection.

Administrative action has been taken against the officers involved in the federal probe but police declined to disclose details. According to the State of Hawai'i Organization of Police Officers, the six officers remain on paid leave.

SHOPO O'ahu Chapter chairman Lt. Alex Garcia said a grievance has been filed on behalf of the officers. He said the matter is set for a hearing this month.

Reach Peter Boylan at 535-8110 or pboylan@honoluluadvertiser.com.