Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2003

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 227, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nominee from the Lieutenant Governor; State Attorney General; Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney; Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training, U.S. Department of Justice; Department of the Treasury, U.S. Customs Service, Honolulu, Hawaii; Hawaii High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, Office of National Drug Control Policy; Weed and Seed Hawaii; Government Efficiency Teams, Inc.; and twelve individuals.

John F. Peyton, Jr., is a former Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii. As an Assistant U.S. Attorney, the nominee worked on the implementation of the Weed and Seed Program, and was instrumental in coalescing various law enforcement agencies to ensure the program's success. Most recently, the candidate has served on the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Councils of Bosnia and Herzegovina, for which his work has been described as "nothing short of remarkable".

Testimony indicates the nominee is hardworking, honest, and ethical; has extensive experience and proven ability in the area of corrections administration and law enforcement; is willing to listen and to learn from others who have more experience in corrections; is knowledgeable about the law; has leadership abilities; and is well-suited to be the Director of Public Safety.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, character, experience, and qualifications of the nominee, has found the nominee to be qualified for the position to which nominated and recommends that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.