My daughter was tragically taken from us on December 22, 2023. Her life was cut short by the very person she sought protection from - her husband. She had filed a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against him, but despite her multiple attempts to report his violations of this order, the system failed her repeatedly. From being questioned about her intentions at the Pearl City police station to being ignored by officers in Ewa, she faced an uphill battle in seeking help.

This is not just our family's story; it's a grim reality for many victims of domestic violence in Honolulu and across the country. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. This equates to more than 10 million women and men each year.

We call upon our lawmakers in Honolulu, HI to enact legislation that mandates immediate arrest and compulsory mental health counseling for any individual who violates a TRO. No victim should have their pleas for help dismissed or ignored; no abuser should be allowed to continue their torment without facing immediate consequences.

We urge you all - citizens of Honolulu and beyond - to join us in demanding this change. Let's ensure that no other family has to endure such heartbreak due to systemic failures again. Please sign this petition today.