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HONOLULU Police Officer Testifies in Trial of Alleged Attacker
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HONOLULU (KHON2) — The police officer who was assaulted during an altercation in February 2023 took the witness stand today in the trial of the man accused of the attack.
Officer Newton, a 17-year veteran of the police department, recounted the incident that occurred while he was patrolling Laie. He noticed an individual obstructing the road and proceeded to approach him.
Upon closer inspection, Officer Newton observed that the man was clutching a jack stand extension. After repeatedly urging him to drop it, the suspect complied.
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However, the situation quickly escalated. The suspect, identified as Hokuokalani Patoc, displayed erratic behavior and continued to block the road, claiming that his bike had been stolen.
Despite Officer Newton’s efforts to reason with Patoc, the suspect remained uncooperative until a van arrived in the vicinity.
Seizing the opportunity as the van passed by, Patoc retrieved the jack extension and struck Officer Newton forcefully on the back of his head.
Subsequently, while Officer Newton lay injured on the ground, Patoc allegedly stole the officer’s government-issued vehicle and fled towards the north shore, eventually being apprehended two hours later near ʻIolani Palace.
Attempted Murder Charges Carry Severe Penalties
Officer Newton’s injuries from the attack were severe, resulting in fractures to his face and head. He was initially in critical condition but is now on the path to recovery.
During Patoc’s indictment, Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm emphasized the gravity of the charges against him. “Attempted murder of a civilian is punishable by a sentence of life with the possibility of parole, but attempted murder of a law enforcement officer carries a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. If convicted as charged, Mr. Patoc will spend the rest of his life behind bars,” said Alm.
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