Honolulu Council discusses bill for media access to police dispatch communications

The Honolulu City Council meeting on June 7, 2025, spotlighted a heated discussion surrounding Bill 46, which aims to enhance media access to Honolulu Police Department (HPD) dispatch communications. The bill has sparked significant debate over the balance between public transparency and the safety of police operations.

Kalei Akana, a victim of police violence, raised concerns about the costs associated with obtaining body camera footage, emphasizing that citizens should not have to pay for access to public information. "If that happens to you, your wife, your girlfriend, I'm pretty sure you should get that footage for free," Akana stated, highlighting the need for accountability in police actions.

Roy Kuroda, representing the HPD, voiced strong opposition to the bill, citing federal regulations that restrict access to sensitive criminal justice information. He stressed that while the department supports transparency, it cannot compromise the safety of officers or the privacy of victims. "Real-time access to dispatch or tactical channels presents serious risks," Kuroda warned.

Assistant Chief Rodney Fanick acknowledged the changing landscape of public information needs and expressed a willingness to explore potential compromises. "We need to sit down and have a real conversation about those things," he said, indicating a commitment to finding a middle ground that ensures both officer safety and public access to information.

Public testimony echoed these sentiments, with several speakers advocating for greater transparency while recognizing the complexities involved. Angela Melody Young raised concerns about the pressures placed on police leadership to classify situations of imminent harm, suggesting a collaborative approach to decision-making.

The council members, including Councilman Rupaula, emphasized the necessity of keeping the public informed while addressing the concerns raised by law enforcement. "There’s gotta be a middle ground," he stated, reinforcing the need for ongoing dialogue between the council and the police department.

As discussions continue, the outcome of Bill 46 remains uncertain, but the commitment to transparency and public safety is clear. The council is poised to navigate these challenges as they seek to uphold democratic values while ensuring the integrity of police operations.