Beginning July 10, visitors to the Hawaii State Capitol will encounter newly installed metal detectors at three key entrances. Two of these will be positioned at street-level elevator access points, while the third will be located at a basement entrance. Public access to the Capitol building will remain unaffected.
The Department of Public Safety has emphasized that these metal detectors represent a significant enhancement to security protocols, aimed at fostering a safer environment within the Capitol. House Speaker Scott Saiki echoed this sentiment, stating that the heightened security measures address concerns about safety expressed by legislators, staff, and visitors alike. He highlighted a prevailing sense of unease within the building, prompting the need for enhanced protective measures.
Speaker Saiki acknowledged Keith Regan, Director of the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS), for his pivotal role in securing the new equipment. DAGS is responsible for the management of state buildings. Saiki noted that while funding for increased security had been allocated over time, Regan's leadership was instrumental in finally establishing a comprehensive security program.
While a 2019 incident involving a deputy sheriff fatally shooting a man near the Capitol grounds was cited as a contributing factor to the increased security concerns, Saiki clarified that other incidents have also prompted the need for enhanced measures. In the 2019 incident, official reports indicate that the man disregarded a sheriff's instructions to dispose of alcohol and vacate the Capitol grounds. The ensuing altercation led to the deputy discharging his weapon, resulting in the man's death from a gunshot wound to the back.
The contract for managing the metal detectors has been awarded to Arekat Pacific Security, Inc., operating under the name API Security. State officials have noted that 37 other state capitols across the nation already utilize metal detectors as part of their security infrastructure.
