Two Honolulu police officers who fired several shots at a woman during a traffic stop last June in Haleiwa were justified in using deadly force, the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney has ruled. City clears police
shooting in Haleiwa
traffic chaseStar-Bulletin staff
Based on a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the shooting and witness statements, the office will take no further action in the case, said Jim Fulton of the city prosecutor's office.
A patrol sergeant fired several shots at Elnora Hiers-Lavarias' Toyota after she tried to run him over with her car. She fled, leading officers on a chase.
Hiers-Lavarias nearly ran over another officer before she was caught.
She suffered a minor injury to her left shoulder, possibly grazed by a bullet.
When considering the statutory elements to justify deadly force, both officers had reason to believe the woman was violent, had little regard for others' safety and posed a legitimate danger to other motorists and the officers, Fulton said.
"Their decisions to use deadly force to protect themselves and the community at large was a justified act under the law."
Hiers-Lavarias was subsequently charged with first-degree criminal property damage and two counts of first-degree attempted assault.
She was acquitted by reason of insanity and has been committed to the Hawaii State Hospital.
City & County of Honolulu
