Animal cruelty cases are increasing due to law enforcement reporting app

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – CrimeStoppers Honolulu and the Hawaiian Humane Society said more people are choosing to report animal abuse cases through the P3 app.

P3 allows the tipster to remain anonymous while uploading videos and images as evidence.

P3 was recently used to report a suspected case of animal cruelty after a woman was caught on video allegedly hitting and pulling on a dog’s leash in Waipahu.

CrimeStoppers Honolulu notified the Hawaiian Humane Society, posted the video online and asked the media to distribute it to help identify the woman.

Within two days, authorities identified her as Heather Hinkle.

Hinkle was not arrested. She was charged with a misdemeanor – second-degree animal cruelty.

Sergeant. Chris Kim of CrimeStoppers Honolulu said more people are now reporting such cases through the app.

They used to be hesitant because it was often about a neighbor or relative.

The traditional way to notify CrimeStoppers Honolulu is to call 955-8300, but Kim said people are afraid of being identified.

“When they call, sometimes they’re still a little shy,” Kim said.

Brandy Shimabukuro, communications manager for the Hawaiian Humane Society, said tipsters often fear retaliation.

“They’re trying to submit something for someone in their own neighborhood, within their community,” Shimabukuro said.

The app also allows CrimeStoppers to immediately ask the tipster additional questions. Previously, it was very difficult to track down the tipster for additional information.

Hawaiian Humane Society field officer Sgt. Ling, who did not want his first name used, said the videos and images sent through the P3 app are also very helpful in building a case.

Hinkle is expected to have a court date next month.

According to Shimabukuro, the dog has been removed from their property and is doing well.

It is not available for adoption.

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