In Wailuku Tuesday afternoon, supporters of the chief held a solidarity walk
MN Oct 13, 2026: … Maui Police Chief John Pelletier joined in a walk of solidarity, hosted by police officers, their families and friends on Tuesday afternoon. The walk was held on the heels of a move by the Maui Police Commission last week to place the chief on paid administrative leave while it conducts an independent investigation into the Chief’s oversight of the Criminal Intelligence Unit….
Chief Pelletier said he was encouraged by those who turned out to show support.
“They’re risking retaliation… They’re proud to stand up and fight for what’s right. And that really means a lot,” said Pelletier. “You know, to me personally, this has been extremely difficult. But we’re not going anywhere. Right is right and wrong is wrong. And, it’s really a matter of, saying enough is enough.”
When asked about the morale of the department since the commissionʻs vote, Pelletier said he was unable to make an assessment since he’s been on leave. “But I can tell you that if you look at the 60 to 75 people that are here and, and at least over half of them are cops, I think that that speaks volumes,” he said.
“I am absolutely blessed and proud to be a member of this community in this department. And you look at the outpouring and the support that we’ve gotten—it’s incredible. I’m very appreciative [of] that.”
During a press conference held with the Chief’s attorney on O’ahu, Friday, Pelletier commented on the Commission decision saying, “I believe this is a direct result of criminal investigations involving the mayor and his office that began in July of this year.” ….
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Read … Maui Police Chief Pelletier encouraged by support from Solidarity Walk after being placed on paid leave : Maui Now