Department of Law Enforcement

After the event, all collected guns will be destroyed, except stolen firearms. Redulla stated that law enforcement officers will do their best to return the guns to their initial owners.

The state Legislature is considering several measures to crack down on illegal fireworks. HPR’s Ashley Mizuo reports on the different tactics lawmakers are looking at, such as increasing both inspections at the harbors and penalties for violators.

This week, following a big news conference Monday about fireworks enforcement, we learned that Jordan Lowe, the director of the Department of Law Enforcement, stepped down. HPR talked with Gov. Josh Green on Thursday morning.

Gov. Josh Green announced the nomination of Honolulu Police Department Maj. Mike Lambert to become the next director. Lambert will start Feb. 1, subject to confirmation by the state Senate.

The measure would categorize less than 25 pounds as a low-level offense, compared to the current weight increments, which have been hard to prove in court. The legislation would also increase the penalties for those who seriously injure or kill someone while using illegal fireworks.

The Conversation, state and county law enforcement officers discuss illegal fireworks. Share your comments during the live show by calling 808-941-3689 (O’ahu) or 1-877-941-3689 (neighbor islands).

The department wants to establish an Explosion Enforcement Section with six investigators and four staff. Currently, the Illegal Fireworks Task Force only has two narcotics enforcement investigators.

The turn-in event will happen this Saturday, Jan. 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Aloha Stadium.

Following the explosion of illegal fireworks in Āliamanu that left three dead and more than 25 others injured, Gov. Josh Green emphasized the need to increase penalties to deter the use of illegal aerials. The Conversation spoke to state Sens. Glenn Wakai and Karl Rhoads about what they think needs to be done.

Due to multiple recent shootings, Oʻahu's Leeward side could see a greater police presence. Numerous lawmakers on the city, state and congressional levels say they are working to stop the increased gun violence.