David Lazar was sworn in July 2 as the 13th Chief of Police of the Honolulu Police Department during a ceremony held at Mission Memorial Auditorium.
Members of the Honolulu Police Commission, elected officials, community leaders, family members and HPD employees gathered to mark the occasion and welcome Lazar as the department’s new chief.
“Chief Lazar brings a wealth of law enforcement experience, proven leadership and a deep commitment to public service,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an ability to build strong relationships within the communities he serves while fostering a culture of professionalism, accountability and excellence within his department. I am confident he will be a strong advocate for HPD’s officers and civilian employees, continue strengthening public trust and help advance our shared goal of keeping Oʻahu safe. I look forward to working closely with Chief Lazar as we continue building a safer, stronger and more connected community for all residents.”
“The Honolulu Police Commission is confident that Chief Lazar is the right leader for this department and this community,” said Honolulu Police Commission Chair Laurie Foster. “We look forward to supporting him and the dedicated men and women of HPD as they continue serving Honolulu with professionalism and pride.”
“It is an honor and privilege to serve the people of Honolulu and the men and women of the Honolulu Police Department,” said Lazar. “I have already seen the pride and dedication that exist throughout this organization. As I continue meeting with employees, community members and partners, I believe listening is only valuable when it is followed by action and that trust is built through responsiveness, engagement and results. My focus is on supporting our employees and ensuring we deliver the high level of service our community expects and deserves.”
Lazar brings more than 33 years of law enforcement experience to Honolulu, including 24 years in police management and executive leadership roles. Prior to joining HPD, he served with the San Francisco Police Department, where he rose through the ranks to become assistant chief of operations.
Throughout his career, Lazar led initiatives focused on crime reduction, technology modernization, operational excellence, constitutional policing and strengthening community trust. He helped establish San Francisco’s first Real Time Investigations Center and championed the department’s first Community Engagement Division and Community Policing Plan.
As Honolulu’s Chief of Police, Lazar is focused on supporting HPD employees through wellness initiatives and recruitment efforts while strengthening public trust through integrity, transparency, accountability and service.
Lazar’s connection to Hawaiʻi extends through his wife, Julie, a retired San Francisco Police Inspector whose mother was born in Honolulu. Their extended ʻohana live throughout Oʻahu, and the family has maintained close ties to the islands for many years. Lazar, Julie and their family relocated to Honolulu in 2026 and are proud to call Hawaiʻi home.