Posted on 03/07/2007 9:29:46 PM PST by freedomdefender
Gerald Paakaula and his teenaged son are accused of beating a couple outside the Waikele Baskin Robbins, literally cracking their skulls after a minor parking lot collision.
But it's something Paakaula's son allegedly said that now has the FBI involved. Prosecutors say the boy yelled racial slurs at the Caucasian couple right before the attack. That makes it a possible civil rights case under the FBI's jurisdiction.
"My understanding of the state law is that the entire hate crime has to be because of a person's race, creed or color, whereas with the federal law it has to only be a factor in the criminal activity taking place," says Special Agent Brandon Simpson.
Federal investigators say they'll be conducting witness interviews and looking at the facts to decide if the brutal assault was road rage or triggered by racism.
Ethnic Studies Professor Davianna McGregor is well aware of racial tension in Hawaii. She says the high cost of living and crowded conditions lead to animosity between locals and newcomers, but she doesn't think this case rises to the federal level.
"Using racial slurs is not a hate crime," said McGregor. "To label it as a hate crime is inappropriate and in itself breeds more animosity and raises racial tensions."
But if FBI does rule it a hate crime, a federal prosecution would significantly increase the possible punishment for Gerald Paakaula.
"It's a very important thing that the federal government protects people's unalienable rights," said Simpson.
Setting aside the stupidity of "hate" crime laws, I didn't think it was considered so unless committed against minorities.
So cracking open someone's skull isn't so serious unless someone shows a racial motivation for doing it. If they'd just beat the crap out of another Hawaiian, it wouldn't be a "hate crime".
I have read elsewhere that there are tensions between Hawaiians and non-natives. It's too bad. Not a tourist spot that I'd go to.
Had the races been reversed here, our Davianna would be demanding the National Guard.
Personally, I think we should just kick Hawaii out of the union.
If you are wanting to visit a tropical paradise, head to the Palau Islands. The locals are very friendly with the tourists and there are a number of tours you can enjoy, from snorkeling and diving on the beautiful coral reefs to exploring old WW1 and WW2 sites both on land and at sea.
I think it is a hate crime to make personal conduct a federal offense.
Sounds good to me. Saw a Hawaiinan on TV a couple months back yapping that they aren't REALLY part of the US.
I'll check them out. Thanks.
I think that is exactly what HI wants. Bad enough the island was seized under typical fraudlant federal manipulation, but to have to face a screwed up liberal guided supreme court that dictates right and wrong, is something out of a Hitler nightmare.
Which is exactly what these racist Hawaiian's want. It is important to understand that these people represent a very small but vocal minority. There are alot more wonderful and beautiful Hawaiian folks who would welcome you into their home. Racism is everywhere.
Their 2007 expedition is currently underway and you can read their updates at their website, www.Bentprop.org. There are some beautiful pictures of the islands and some links to several local dive shops.
"Gerald Paakaula
Doesn't look like a black name.
What's all the hoopla?
There is no hate crime here as both sides are non-blacks.
Sorry gents, but neither of you know what you are talking about.
"Using racial slurs in not a hate crime," said McGregor."
No, but using racial slurs followed by assault is would seem to suggest a motive.
You're silence says we do.
Gerald Paakaula and his teenaged son are accused of beating a couple outside the Waikele Baskin Robbins.
Apparently someone was angry because they didn't get the last scoop of 'Cookies and Cream' and now they have a Rocky Road ahead.
Caucasians are the minority in Hawaii.
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