Lieutenant Christopher Jelsma
Hawaii County Police Department
Hawaii County Police Department
Lieutenant Jelsma began his career in public service on July 20, 2004, when he enlisted in the United States Air Force as a Security Forces Airman. He completed two enlistments, serving a total of eight years before separating from the Air Force on July 19, 2012, and returning home to Hawaiʻi.
On September 17, 2012, Lieutenant Jelsma joined the Hawaiʻi County Police Department and began recruit training. During the academy, he was selected by the training staff to serve as Recruit Class President. He graduated on March 6, 2013, earning recognition for physical fitness, marksmanship, and as the class’s Overall Outstanding Recruit.
Following graduation, Lieutenant Jelsma was assigned to the South Hilo District, where he completed four months of field training. On July 16, 2013, he received his first solo patrol assignment in the Kona District. After a little more than a year, he transferred to the Hilo District, where he continued serving as a patrol officer.
During his time on patrol, Lieutenant Jelsma completed Drug Recognition Expert training, served as a Field Training Officer, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Security and Management. He was recognized as Officer of the Month on several occasions and was named Officer of the Year in 2019.
On March 16, 2021, Lieutenant Jelsma was promoted to Sergeant and assigned to the South Kohala District as a Patrol Sergeant. He later transferred to the Puna District, where he continued serving in that capacity.
On May 1, 2023, he transferred to the Criminal Investigation Section, where he served as a detective for approximately a year and a half.
On February 1, 2025, he was promoted to Lieutenant and assigned to the Puna District as a Patrol Lieutenant, where he continues to serve today.