HONOLULU — The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) is providing an immersive pathway for college students interested in forensic science and crime scene investigation.
HPD’s Scientific Investigation Section (SIS) is hosting its third annual Summer Internship Program which provides college students with an opportunity to learn firsthand how forensic science supports criminal investigations.
Throughout the two-week program which began on Aug. 4 and runs until Aug. 14, 2026, interns are receiving tailored instruction from crime scene analysts and forensic specialists while participating in practical exercises that demonstrate the collection, preservation and analysis of evidence.
“This program gives students a realistic look at the science, teamwork and attention to detail required to process crime scenes,” said Cathy Matsuoka, director of HPD’s Scientific Investigation Section. “By investing in their education and providing hands-on experience, we’re helping develop the next generation of forensic experts while strengthening the relationship between HPD and our community.”
The internship also gives as an opportunity for the Honolulu Police Department to engage with students interested in careers in forensic science and law enforcement and foster a greater understanding of the critical role crime scene investigators play in the criminal justice system.
“Today’s interns are tomorrow’s scientific experts,” said Chief David Lazar. “Our recruitment efforts go beyond sworn officers to also reach potential professional staff of the HPD ʻohana. Working alongside our sworn personnel, the men and women of SIS are critical to solving cases and closing investigations. We look forward to having one or more of these interns join our team one day.”
The current cohort of eight interns includes four who attend the University of Hawaiʻi, three who attend Chaminade University and one from Hawaiʻi Pacific University.
“The internship has been really great, and I have been having fun,” said Chaminade University student Kylie Rhodes, who is majoring in forensic science. “I’m getting to see it in action for the first time, how it actually works and operates and how it gets used in casework.”
To learn more about the Scientific Investigative Section, visit the Scientific Investigation Section of the HPD website. Information about future internship opportunities will be shared on HPD’s social media channels and joinhonolulupd.org.