Citizens who once took a stand against crime in Honolulu’s Chinatown are now apparently laying down, frustrated at the growing crime problem in their neighborhood.
According to KHON, a citizens patrol which once claimed 70 active members is now down to a handful.
The group would walk the streets every Tuesday since 1994 to retake the neighborhood from criminals.
The patrol’s organizer, Dolores Mollring, is pleading for help.
“You can’t sit on your butts and not take an active role, that’s what it is take an active role in your neighborhood,” Mollring said.
Meanwhile, the growing crime problem is chasing away businesses.
The popular Otto Cake Bakery has shut its doors. It’s owner who was very outspoken about crime in the neighborhood has given up the fight.
“Miss him already, I’m so sorry he leave but what can we do,” Yes Barber and Hair Styling owner Linda Dang said.
Honolulu Police recently held a meeting with the neighborhood to address the issue. You can read about that in KHON.
