A 14-year-old girl has told Honolulu police that two men sexually assaulted her on March 7, according to authorities. Detectives have opened an investigation and, so far, have not announced any arrests. Police have also not released descriptions of the alleged attackers, a lack of detail that has helped refocus attention on how juvenile sexual assault cases are handled in the city.
According to KITV, police documents show the teen filed her report with investigators on March 7 and described two adult men as the alleged assailants. KITV reports that detectives are still working the case and that authorities have released few additional details.
Police privacy under scrutiny
The timing is hard to miss. The Honolulu Police Department is already facing scrutiny over how it protects the identities of juvenile victims, after a senior commander was reassigned amid allegations that confidential victim information was shared. Coverage of police brass busted down after victim outed online and other local reporting indicate the episode prompted an internal administrative investigation and spurred advocates to demand stronger safeguards around sensitive case information.
Where survivors can get help
Survivors and family members can reach the Sex Abuse Treatment Center's 24-hour hotline at 808-524-7273 for crisis counseling, medical accompaniment and legal advocacy, and the center lists its resources online. For broader, statewide support and referrals, contact Child & Family Service, which provides ongoing counseling and assistance to children and families across Hawaii. The Sex Abuse Treatment Center also offers a web chat and information about forensic exams on its site at satchawaii.org.
The investigation into the teen's report remains active, and police say they will release more information when appropriate. Anyone with details that could help the case is urged to contact Honolulu police.
