Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation - DCR

Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation - DCR This is the official page of the Hawaii State Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) oversees the Corrections Institutions Division, which includes all jails and prisons; and the Rehabilitation Services and Programs Division which includes the Intake Service Center, Healthcare Division, Corrections Program Services Division, Hawai'i Correctional Industries and Reentry Office. Mission: The mission of the Department of Correctio

ns and Rehabilitation is to provide a secure correctional environment for comprehensive rehabilitative, holistic, and wraparound re-entry services, including culturally-based approaches, to persons sentenced to our custody and care with professionalism, integrity, respect, and fairness. Our goal is to reduce recidivism and enhance the safety and security of our communities. Divisions: Administration Division, Correctional Institutions Division and Rehabilitation Services and Programs Division

Administratively Attached Agencies: Crime Victim Compensation Commission and Hawaii Paroling Authority

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT FOR PUBLIC COMMENTS

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation encourages and welcomes your comments. Our goals in operating our social media accounts and allowing public comments are to share information with as many people as possible, gain constructive feedback, and to foster courteous discussion. Where public comments are enabled, we request that commenting be done in a respectful manner and that all commenters be considerate and civil toward one another. All content posted, including public comments, on social media accounts managed by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is monitored. DCR does not discriminate against any views, but comments containing any of the following are inconsistent with the purposes of the forum and are not permitted:

Personally identifiable information, such as Social Security Numbers, home or business addresses, e-mail addresses, or phone numbers;
Threats of harm or violence;
Obscene or vulgar language or content;
Po*******hy of any kind;
Defamation to a person or persons;
Discriminatory or racist language or content;
Conduct, incitement, encouragement, or solicitation of illegal activity;
Personal attacks, including discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, physical appearance, sexual orientation, or financial status;
Repetitive “spam” comments. Moderation:
Public comments on our social media accounts are not moderated prior to posting, but they are monitored on an ongoing basis. Comments found by our moderators to contain any of the above categories will be removed or hidden. Repeated violations of this policy by the same individual, following removal or hiding of the individual’s comments, may cause that individual to be blocked from interacting with the account. In appropriate cases, such as threats of violence against persons or property, comments will be reported to the relevant law enforcement agency. Disclaimer:
The opinions expressed in public comments are those of the authors and do not represent the positions or opinions of the Director or the Director's Office.

The Hālawa Correctional Facility (HCF) hosted the Recognition Ceremony & College Arts and Research Showcase on Friday, A...
08/21/2026

The Hālawa Correctional Facility (HCF) hosted the Recognition Ceremony & College Arts and Research Showcase on Friday, August 14, 2026, to celebrate the accomplishments of 55 incarcerated individuals who earned certificates after completing programs in education and personal growth. Around 40 families came and supported the program participants.

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) Corrections Education Program Services Branch organized the special occasion that highlighted how education and personal growth can build confidence and create opportunities for a better future when the men reenter the community upon their release.

During the ceremony, DCR Deputy Director Sanna Muñoz of the Rehabilitation Services and Programs Division emphasized how education is a key part of rehabilitation.

“Use your knowledge, talent, and skills for good, to be better parents, partners, friends, neighbors, in our community. I hope you are proud of yourselves as we are, you made us all proud.” Muñoz said.

DCR Corrections Education Program Manager Roseanne Propato echoed the same sentiment and encouraged incarcerated individuals to remain focused and “achieve the things you set your mind to.”

Several incarcerated individuals earned multiple certificates in various programs that are available at HCF.

At the event, four inmates were recognized for passing their GED and HiSET exams. Two of them are continuing their education and are enrolled in a College Program.

In the Career Technical Education program, the following number of participants earned certificates in the following areas:

• Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) - 4
• Residential Construction - 2
• Solar Energy - 1
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour Safety Training - 6
• ServSafe: Food Handler 3 years Certification - 11
• ServSafe: Food Manager 5 years Certification - 9
• Forklift 3 years Certification – 28

In the life skills program, the following number of participants were recognized for completing the following courses:

• Build Your BIZ (Business) - 4
• Cognitive Skills - 12
• General Health and Nutrition Class – 9

In the Academic awards, the following number of participants were recognized:

• GED Graduates- 4
• Growing English Communicators (English as a Second Language Students) - 6
• Bridging English Communicator (English as a Second Language Student) - 1
• Emerging Sign Language Learner - 1

Several individuals were also recognized for their educational growth, leadership and being a positive role model among peers.

The last event at graduation was the College Arts and Research Showcase, where incarcerated individuals could showcase their passions and interests. The participants were CUH Residents/Students pursuing their AA or BA degrees. They attended in formal attire because the showcase theme was “Dress for Success,” which helps build confidence in their professional appearance.

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) thanks the Education Department, teachers, staff, and partner organizations for their continued support in empowering individuals through education.

WCCC GRADUATION CEREMONY: SEVEN INMATES EARNED THEIR GENERAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT (GED).KAILUA — The Women’s Community ...
08/20/2026

WCCC GRADUATION CEREMONY: SEVEN INMATES EARNED THEIR GENERAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT (GED).

KAILUA — The Women’s Community Correctional Center (WCCC) hosted a graduation ceremony Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Maunawili Education Unit, celebrating seven students who earned their General Educational Development (GED) while in custody at the facility.

Class speakers Michelle Higa and Kayla Arellano shared how meaningful it was to have support from DCR staff and classmates throughout their educational journey.

More than 20 people, including graduates, their loved ones, and honored guests, attended the ceremony to recognize the student’s achievement.

Students are required to have a passing score of 145 in four exams in each of the following subjects — reading/language arts, math, science and social studies — to earn their high school equivalency diploma.

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) thanks McKinley Community School for Adults for supporting students as they work toward their goals. Congratulations to the seven students who achieved this huge accomplishment!

Yesterday, August 12th, 2026, the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) Deputy Director Melanie Martin of t...
08/14/2026

Yesterday, August 12th, 2026, the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) Deputy Director Melanie Martin of the Administration Division, and DCR Deputy Director Sanna Muñoz of the Rehabilitation Services and Programs Division, addressed 11 new recruits of the Basic Corrections Recruit Class at the Training Academy on O’ahu.

Recruits undergo eight weeks of training that includes more than 300 hours of classroom instruction and physical training. In the course, recruits learn standards of conduct, ethics and professionalism, maintaining security, crisis intervention, self-defense tactics and more.

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) Director Tommy Johnson, Deputy Director for Rehabilitation Servic...
08/12/2026

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) Director Tommy Johnson, Deputy Director for Rehabilitation Services and Programs Sanna Muñoz, Warden John Schell, and other DCR staff (not depicted) attended along with the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) staff Sally Tamai, and Chris Kinimaka to the American Correctional Association (ACA) 156th Congress of Corrections Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from July 28th, 2026, through August 2, 2026. The event brought together thousands of correctional professionals from across the United States and provided opportunities to share knowledge.

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) is proud to celebrate the continued success of its partnership wi...
08/12/2026

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) is proud to celebrate the continued success of its partnership with the Hawaii Laborers’ Apprenticeship & Training Center (HLATC), creating a direct pathway from incarceration into skilled union employment.

Our most recent cohort completed the Pre-Apprentice Evaluation Course on July 31, 2026, and quickly transitioned into employment:

Thomas K. – Started work in 3 days
“I have landed a good job with good benefits and better pay. Thank you DCR. I can have a better future with the Laborers Union.”

Preston L. – Started work in 5 days
“I now have purpose and responsibility...and a path to help others in a similar situation.”

Blaeden L. – Started work in 18 days
“It gave me a chance to redeem myself...and the opportunity to change my life and start my career in construction.”

John S. – Started work in 18 days
“I've been given the opportunity for a better future—allowing myself to learn skills and grow, becoming a productive member of society.”

Since launching the pilot program in November 2025:
19 individuals attended the Pre-Apprentice Evaluation Course
17 successfully completed the program
16 have been dispatched to union employment opportunities
1 declined dispatch due to relocation out of state

Average time from program completion to employment is approximately 4 weeks.

The impact goes beyond getting a job. One participant graduated from DCR’s Carpenters Pre-Apprenticeship Program while incarcerated. While on work furlough, he joined the Laborers’ Union and gained employment before ultimately transitioning into the Carpenters Union, building on the career pathway he began while incarcerated.

Congratulations to our newest Laborers as they take the next step toward building their careers and their futures!

HONOLULU— Pre-trial felon Joseph Tauilemua is back in custody at the O’ahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) after th...
08/06/2026

HONOLULU— Pre-trial felon Joseph Tauilemua is back in custody at the O’ahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) after the Honolulu Police Department arrested him at 7:34 p.m. on military property yesterday, Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

Staff at OCCC discovered Tauilemua, missing on Wednesday morning, August 5, 2026. The State Sheriff Division and Honolulu Police Department were notified.

The Honolulu Police Department arrested Tauilemua by Joint Base Peral Harbor and returned him to custody at OCCC shortly after.

Tauilemua, is a pre-trial felon charged with Robbery in the second degree.

He now faces a second-degree escape charge. An investigation into his escape is underway.

The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) thanks the Honolulu Police Department and all of our other law enforcement partners for their efforts in locating this escapee.

08/05/2026

HONOLULU — A search is underway for pre-trial felon Joseph Tauilemua, who allegedly escaped from the O’ahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) today, Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

Staff discovered Tauilemua, missing this morning following a visitation. The Honolulu Police Department and state Sheriffs were notified.

Tauilemua, is a pre-trial felon charged with Robbery in the second degree.

He is 6 feet, 3 inches tall and weighs approximately 165 pounds. Tauilemua is further described as having brown eyes and black hair.

Anyone with information on Tauilemua’s whereabouts is asked to call 911 or the State Sheriffs at 808-586-1352.

INCARCERATED MOTHERS REUNITE WITH CHILDREN TO CELEBRATE SPRING-THEMED ʻOHANA DAYHONOLULU — The Women’s Community Correct...
08/05/2026

INCARCERATED MOTHERS REUNITE WITH CHILDREN TO CELEBRATE SPRING-THEMED ʻOHANA DAY

HONOLULU — The Women’s Community Correctional Center (WCCC) hosted a spring- themed ʻOhana Day on Saturday, July 18, 2026. Bring together incarcerated mothers, their keiki, and loved ones for a day of fun and family bonding.

During the three-and-a-half-hour celebration sponsored by the Pu'a Foundation and Catholic Diocese, the event welcomed 33 incarcerated mothers and 77 family members. Families enjoyed artists and crafts, wholesome family games, and activities. Mothers and their keiki also enjoyed popcorn and shave ice during the event.

Lunch was provided by Kon Katering, and families enjoyed chili dogs, sub sandwiches, and cupcakes for dessert.

Events like ʻOhana Day help strengthen family relationships and support successful rehabilitation and reentry. Mahalo nui loa to everyone who made this event a success!

The Mālama Hawaiʻi Windward Recruitment Event has been canceled.If you're interested in Social Worker and Human Service ...
08/01/2026

The Mālama Hawaiʻi Windward Recruitment Event has been canceled.

If you're interested in Social Worker and Human Service Professional positions with the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DCR) or the Department of Human Services (DHS), you can still apply online, please visit http://dcr.hawaii.gov

Mahalo for your understanding!

WOMEN’S COMMUNITY CORRECTIONAL CENTER HOSTS RESOURCE FAIRKAILUA — The Women's Community Correctional Center (WCCC) hoste...
08/01/2026

WOMEN’S COMMUNITY CORRECTIONAL CENTER HOSTS RESOURCE FAIR

KAILUA — The Women's Community Correctional Center (WCCC) hosted a resource fair Thursday, July 23, 2026, in the facility's Maunawili Cottage courtyard for nearly 140 inmates to help them prepare for successful reintegration into the community.

The facility collaborated on the event with a nonprofit organization called Transforming Lives, Hawaii Paroling Authority (HPA), as well as the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Reentry Coordination Office (RCO) to bring all 42 vendors together.

Nicole Fernandez, WCCC's Offender Services Section Administrator, extended the invitation to all incarcerated individuals at the facility to attend the resource fair. During the event, representatives from the 42 vendors met one-on-one with participants, providing information, referrals, and connections to reentry services, including housing, healthcare, peer mentorship, employment assistance, education, substance use treatment, and other supportive resources to help a successful transition back into the community.

Leimomi is currently participating in our WCCC Furlough Program and is employed by the Building Industry Association (BIA), which participated in the Resource Fair. Leimomi participated in the event with her employer to share her journey and experience with her peers.

DCR Director Tommy Johnson attended the resource fair, where he thanked WCCC staff, Transforming Lives, HPA, and the DCR RCO for organizing the event. Director Johnson also thanked the vendors for their participation and collaboration. At the event, Director Johnson was passing out flyers and thanked the inmates for attending the event and taking advantage of the resource fair.

The resource fair emphasized the importance of "warm handoffs" by connecting inmates directly with community partners, helping establish relationships and improving access to critical support services as they prepare for reentry.

Address

Honolulu, HI

Opening Hours

Monday 7:45am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 7:45am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 7:45am - 4:30pm
Thursday 7:45am - 4:30pm
Friday 7:45am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+18085871288

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