Urging The Honolulu Police Department To Allocate Additional Resources To Increase Police Presence On The Waianae Coast And To Create A New Police District For Waianae That Is Separate From Kapolei And ewa.
The proposed measures in SCR88 seek to address increasing crime rates in Waianae. According to the Honolulu Police Department's Annual Report for 2020, District 8, which includes Waianae, recorded the highest number of murders and aggravated assaults on Oahu. The resolution reflects the community's call for greater police visibility, which is believed to deter crime and provide immediate support to victims. The recognition of local concerns about safety demonstrates a proactive approach to crime prevention through improved policing.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 88 (SCR88) urges the Honolulu Police Department to enhance police presence on the Waianae Coast and to establish a new police district specifically for Waianae, which would be distinct from the existing districts of Kapolei and Ewa. The resolution emphasizes that Waianae is a historic and culturally significant area that is experiencing population growth, thereby necessitating increased law enforcement resources to ensure community safety. Supporters of the resolution believe that the establishment of a separate district would allow for a more focused and effective policing strategy tailored to the unique needs of Waianae residents.
The sentiment regarding SCR88 is generally positive among local residents and business owners, who perceive the allocation of additional resources as necessary for their safety. The community's demand for a new police district underlines a sense of urgency in addressing safety concerns, particularly in light of recent crime statistics. However, there may be voices of caution regarding the potential implications of resource allocation and the need for ensuring that policing strategies do not disproportionately impact community relations.
While SCR88 aims to consolidate policing efforts in the Waianae area, challenges may arise regarding funding and the logistics of reallocating police resources. Questions about how to effectively staff and manage a new police district and ensure that it meets the community's expectations are notable points of contention. Additionally, discussions around the implications of increased police presence and enforcement tactics could generate debate about balancing law enforcement with community engagement and civil liberties.