Page 6 - MidWeek Central - May 3, 2023

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MAY 3, 2023
As a legislator and mother, preventing violent attacks in our community is one of my top priorities. Addressing the root causes of criminal behavior, such as substance abuse and mental health, is one of the most effective ways to reduce crime. Re- cent news coverage of at- tempted murder, assault and theft has left many residents feeling concerned and fear- ful, highlighting the critical need to address these issues.
STATE REP. TRISH LA CHICA
Making A Call For Action On Crime, Safety
State Rep. Trish La Chica (second from left) meets with Honolulu Police Department District 2 Officers Tim Iinuma, Ku‘ulei Wassman and Cpl. Shane Muna to discuss staffing challenges, youth mentorship and starting a neighborhood watch program. PHOTOS COURTESY THE OFFICE OF STATE REP. TRISH LA CHICA
Honolulu Police Department teams at District 2 and Dis- trict 3. In those conversa- tions, I learned about the issues affecting our commu- nities, including an out-of- control drug problem, a sig- nificant increase in firearms being carried in public spac- es and a growing population experiencing homelessness with a lack of staffing and housing units available to assist them.
neighborhoods is critical to achieving this goal. By in- vesting in the police depart- ment, we are investing in public health and safety, and by partnering with them, we can address the root causes of crime, such as substance abuse and mental health is- sues before they escalate into criminal activity.
workers and emergency medical technicians, can be dispatched in lieu of police officers to respond to calls related to homelessness, ensuring the right personnel are dispatched to provide care and medical treatment when necessary.
To better understand the issues facing our commu- nity, I recently met with the
Adequately funding HPD is essential to create a safer community and decrease crime. Ensuring adequate police coverage across
This legislative session, I introduced HCR162/ SCR107, a resolution to ex- pand crisis response teams to Central O‘ahu to help address the police staffing shortage. Crisis response teams, consisting of social
Another valuable tool we can use to prevent crime in our community is the Neigh- borhood Watch Program. By working together with law enforcement, we can create a stronger, more connected community that is less vul- nerable to criminal activity.
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