Batarti Gabbard, the elder brother of former presidential candidate and congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, has been charged by Honolulu police following an alleged incident at a Waikiki hotel pool where he is accused of attempting to lure several children to his room. The charges stem from a July 12 event described by authorities as a “stranger danger” scenario.
Allegations at Waikiki Hotel Pool
According to police reports, Batarti Gabbard, 55, approached multiple children, including a 9-year-old boy, at the pool area of an unspecified Waikiki hotel. Authorities allege he inquired about their names, noted them down in a notebook, and then offered them gum and money in an attempt to persuade them to accompany him to his hotel room. The children reportedly declined his offers and he subsequently left the area. A 42-year-old woman witnessed the interaction and reported the incident to the police.
The specific charge filed against Batarti Gabbard is second-degree custodial interference. Police confirmed that he is no longer in custody.
Family Confirms Ongoing Treatment
The Gabbard family, including state Senator Mike Gabbard, father of both Tulsi and Batarti, has acknowledged the situation. Mike Gabbard confirmed that his son is continuing to receive medical and psychiatric treatment. While declining to comment on the specific allegations, he expressed his family’s love and support for Batarti.
“We love him, and asked him to follow the protocol at the hospital, which he says he will do,” Mike Gabbard stated. “We’re praying for his speedy recovery, and would appreciate the prayers of others.”
Attempts were made to reach Tulsi Gabbard for comment through her public office, but she did not respond immediately.
Prior Arrest and Legal Proceedings
This is not the first legal issue Batarti Gabbard has faced recently. He was arrested on July 16 on separate charges of theft. He entered a plea of not guilty to the theft charge on Friday morning. He was released and is currently scheduled to appear in court on August 14 for that case.
As of the latest reports, no court date has yet been set for the custodial interference charge. The Honolulu Police Department confirmed that Gabbard is no longer being held in custody.
Context and Community Response
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about child safety, particularly in public spaces. Law enforcement agencies frequently issue warnings about “stranger danger” and advise parents to educate their children on how to respond if approached by unfamiliar individuals.
Organizations dedicated to combating child exploitation and abuse often emphasize the importance of vigilance and reporting suspicious activity. Initiatives aimed at protecting children from online and offline predators are frequently highlighted by public figures and law enforcement alike, underscoring the persistent nature of these threats.
Legal Ramifications of Custodial Interference
Second-degree custodial interference, as charged in this case, typically involves actions that violate the custody rights of another person or unlawfully remove a child from the care of a legal guardian. The specifics of the charge would depend on the exact circumstances and the legal standing of those involved in the children’s care. Penalties can vary based on jurisdiction and the severity of the offense, potentially including fines and jail time.
The legal process will now unfold, with Batarti Gabbard expected to address both the custodial interference and theft charges in court. The family’s focus remains on his ongoing treatment and recovery, as they navigate the legal proceedings.
