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Posted: Monday, December 5th, 2005 4:01 AM HST

Kauai County Council to investigate island's police force

By Associated Press

LIHUE, Hawaii (AP) _ The Kauai County Council is investigating the island's police department, Chief K-C Lum, and the Kauai Police Commission amid public complaints and budget problems. The council voted unanimously last week to authorize the investigation. It cited low morale, public complaints, possible lawsuits, and budget problems for its move. The probe marks the first time the council has used the investigative powers given to it by the Kauai County Charter. Council members say the island's police force is deeply polarized. Councilwoman Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho says officers in blue are more afraid of other officers in blue than the ice addict in the street. She says this jeopardizes the community. (Copyright 2005 by the Associated Press. All rights reserved.)