Hannemann backs tougher
police tactics

The mayoral hopeful pushes for wiretaps
and "walk-and-talks"

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Mayoral candidate Mufi Hannemann says he supports law enforcement's efforts to make wiretaps easier to get and allow police to use "walk-and-talk" measures to gain consent to search for illicit drugs.

Hannemann said those and other initiatives will be tools to make Honolulu safer against crime, drugs and homeland security threats. He unveiled his public safety package last night before an overflowing crowd at a fund-raiser at the Honolulu Country Club, where organizers expected at least 3,000 to attend.

"Public safety will never be compromised," Hannemann said.

Hannemann's plan targets crystal methamphetamine, homeland security threats and crimes against tourists.

Hannemann's package includes:

» Helping the state in expanding treatment programs in correctional facilities.

» Creating drop-in drug treatment centers in each City Council district.

» Expanding summer fun programs to include technology and arts education initiatives to keep kids off the streets and away from drugs and crime.

» Engaging faith-based organizations to help address drug problems through federal grants that these organizations would be eligible to receive.

» Utilizing city lands for drug treatment facilities or behavioral health services.

In announcing his plans, Hannemann brought with him to the stage the leaders of the police and firefighter unions -- two organizations that have endorsed him -- as well as officials with drug treatment facilities, community anti-drug programs and the tourist industry.

"I've always believed that public safety is the top priority," Hannemann said. "You need to work together as a team."

The state Legislature did not pass two bills supported by law enforcement officials like city Prosecutor Peter Carlisle: patterning Hawaii's wiretap law after federal electronic surveillance and allowing procedures to let police officers approach suspected drug smugglers, engage them in conversation and gain consent to search. "Walk and talk" was ruled unconstitutional by the Hawaii Supreme Court.

Hannemann said he backs tougher laws like these as tools for law enforcement to go after drug pushers and addicts who are committing violent crimes.

Hannemann's plan was unveiled the day after opponent Duke Bainum announced his ideas for combating crime and drug use.

If elected, Bainum pledged the city's support in helping the state gain more prison beds. He also advocated the use of city land and facilities to build more drug treatment centers and develop more after-school programs.

Hannemann's $25-a-person fund-raiser last night comes when both candidates are trying to raise more money after they nearly depleted their campaign war chests heading into last month's primary election.