Issue Position: Public Safety

Issue Position

As a former probation officer and educator, I understand public safety and the importance of being firm, consistent and clear regarding criminal justice. The ultimate way to reduce crime is to increase the number of strong, nurturing families and improve economic and social conditions for all. Establishing these standards and making these investments requires leadership, long-term vision and commitment.

We will stop the practice of sending prisoners out of the state, which sends public dollars out of Hawaii instead of creating jobs and community service opportunities here at home. It also often decreases the chances of successful rehabilitation by wresting prisoners away from their families and communities. Instead, they come back more hardened than ever. Sending prisoners out of state is also against the basic values of Hawaii, essentially turning prisoners into commodities to be held by the lowest bidder.

We will build secure prison facilities in Hawaii on the basis of cost-effectiveness, safety, and benefit to the community, and we will maintain the highest standards for corrections staff as represented in current collective bargaining agreements

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