What kind of message are we sending to a crime-safe Japan, and those same citizens who are told to expect aloha from Hawaii residents, only to get brutally beaten up by a thug in Kakaako while using a public park restroom? Said thug gets probation and is set free to continue preying on unknowing tourists who flock to that specific area to take in all of the wall murals that are heavily promoted as an attraction to street art-loving visitors.

This result is most likely due to our underfunded, overcrowded and outdated prison system.

Kakaako’s growth and appeal should warrant the same law-enforcement coverage that Waikiki now receives, if we are to promote a safe environment for visitors and residents alike.

Byron “Jiro” Kaneshiro

Wahiawa

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