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Interim Police Chief's Legacy: Training Officers is His Top Feat
8 Jun
Summary
- Training 300-400 recruits is Vanic's greatest accomplishment.
- Vanic led HPD twice during abrupt leadership changes.
- He has a degree in architecture and plays musical instruments.
Rade Vanic, who twice stepped in as interim chief for the Honolulu Police Department, views his tenure training officers as his most significant contribution. From 2006 to 2011, he guided between 300 and 400 recruits, many of whom remain with the department in key roles. Vanic's path to leadership included a degree in architecture and musical skills.
He first led HPD on May 5, 2021, following the retirement of Chief Susan Ballard. His second interim term began on June 18, 2025, after Chief Arthur Logan's sudden departure. During these periods, Vanic emphasized empowering his teams and ensuring the community's safety.
Vanic's initiatives included employee support programs, staffing adjustments, and overseeing school resource officer programs. He is now assisting with the transition to the new chief, David Lazar, and hopes to continue serving in a leadership capacity. Vanic stressed the importance of Lazar connecting with both the officers and the community.
City leaders like Police Commission Chair Laurie Foster and Mayor Rick Blangiardi commended Vanic's dedication, knowledge, and steady leadership through challenging times. They expressed gratitude for his courage and commitment to HPD and the community.
