Animal cruelty cases spike as a result of law enforcement reporting app

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

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

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

CrimeStoppers Honolulu notified the Hawaiian Humane Society, put the video online and asked the media to broadcast it in an effort to help identify the woman.

Within two days, the agencies identified her as Heather Hinkle.

Hinkle was not arrested. She was cited for a misdemeanor crime — animal cruelty in the second degree.

Sgt. Chris Kim of CrimeStoppers Honolulu said more people are now reporting these types of cases using the app.

Previously they were hesitant because it often involved a neighbor or relative.

The traditional way to notify CrimeStoppers Honolulu is by calling 955-8300, but Kim said people worry they will be identified.

“Sometimes when they call, they’re still a little skittish,” Kim said.

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

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

The app also allows CrimeStoppers to type in any follow up questions instantly to the tipster. 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 pictures sent through the P3 app are also very helpful in building a case.

Hinkle is expected to have a court date next month.

The dog was removed from her property and is doing well, according to Shimabukuro.

It will not be put up for adoption.