Domestic abuse more serious than tourism

Although crime statistics have deceased about 9 percent over last year, 11 percent so far this year, and about 17 percent since 1995, domestic violence remains a problem for many Hawaiian households.

Stopping purse-snatchings and crimes against tourists became a high priority for the law enforcement system in 1996.

This, however, is a gross error in judgment -- more important than a tourist's wallet is our children's peace of mind.

Every year, more of Hawaii's women fall victim to domestic violence. Some incidents even result in death.

Since taking children away from disputing parents almost never benefits all parties involved, new solutions must be found to deal with domestic abuse cases.

Anger therapy may prove beneficial, but requires time and money for enforcement. This is where we should focus our efforts.

If we can improve our families' situations at home, we can bring back to Hawai`i what the tourists really want -- a true sense of aloha.

[In memory of Jolene Schott, a coworker who was killed earlier that year. See "Neighbor arrested in woman's murder." Link]