HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0966.002 1996-1998
PANHANDLING BILL TESTIMONY
Aggressive panhandling is the number one concern of businesses in Downtown
Hilo. In a community policing survey conducted in June 1998, 50% of the respondents
made this statement.
Many misconceptions of panhandlers have recently surfaced. In my two years as
a community police officer I have become very familiar with these panhandlers. I would
like to provide a profile of the average panhandler to dispute some of these
misconceptions. -.i~y~rsy
oate---------------
• The average panhandler is in his late 30's to early 40s. County Council
• He is not homeless. He lives in an apartment in or near Downtown Hilo.
• He receives some type of supplemental income.
• He is involved in some type of substance abuse. Several panhandlers have admitted
to using the money they receive to purchase crack cocaine. Several have been
arrested for being in possession of crack pipes or drugs.
• He makes as much as $50.00 to $ 75.00 a day panhandling.
, The average panhandler works on Kamehameha Avenue throughout the day and
during the dinner time hours. He frequents the S. Hata Building and targets the
customers of Reuben's Mexican Restaurant and Cafd Pesto. He will target the elderly,
and will often follow them to their car if necessary. He will use intimidation and is
willing to become vocal to get his way. He is persistent and knows that most people will
sacrifice a dollar to be rid of him.
This bill will give the police the opportunity to address the panhandling problem and
return the safe and secure feeling that every visitor to Downtown Hilo deserves.
Submitted by Police Officer Randy Apele at 10/06/98 FC mtg.
oamm No.
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itsf. L1<tn OCT 6 1998