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The Waikiki Neighborhood Board and community members applauded Rep. Tom Brower on Tuesday, his first appearance at their monthly meeting since an attack by homeless youth on him during a walk though the growing Kakaako encampment last month.
Several members expressed concern that the encampment and others along nearby Ala Moana Boulevard and Atkinson Drive are out of control. However, Brower, who was taken to the hospital following the June 29 event, told the board he is undecided about whether to pursue charges against the two minors, who he said gave him an unprovoked beating.
“The Attorney General’s Office is bringing the case to the attention of the Honolulu Police Department,” Brower said. “Because minors are involved, after police contact me, I’ll make a decision about whether to press charges.”
Brower told the board he was investigating a complaint about the homeless encampment from the Children’s Discovery Center when initial contact was made by a teenager, who rode his skateboard into him and started pushing and hitting him. Another teenager also has come forward to take responsibility for the attack, which witnesses have said may have included 10 other people.
“At the aftermath of this ordeal, my concern is not necessarily for my own safety, but for the safety of families and children who frequent the Children’s Discovery Center or choose to spend a day at the park.” Brower said. “This could happen to anyone.”
