Attacks on Officers Up, Union Calls for Action
The Honolulu Police Department reported there was a 20 percent increase in assaults on its officers so far this year compared to last year.
“It’s extremely concerning to us,” said Nicholas Schlapak of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO), the police union. Schlapak added nationwide, attacks against officers are statistically reaching a 10-year high.
“These statistics are extremely alarming, however, we at SHOPO feel the time to look at the statistics is over. It’s passed. What we need to do is start focusing on remedies and solutions for this. It’s time for action,” Schlapak said.
SHOPO is calling for stricter laws.
“It’s time to deter criminals from committing these acts. It’s time for things like enhanced sentencing, a doubling of punishment. Real deterrents to assaults on law enforcement officers,” Schlapak insisted.