Honolulu police arrested Batarti Gabbard, 55, the older brother of President Donald Trump's former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, on July 12. Gabbard faces a charge of custodial interference in the second degree following an investigation into an incident at a Waikiki hotel pool where he allegedly approached several children and attempted to persuade them to accompany him to his room.
"We love him, and asked him to follow the protocol at the hospital, which he says he will do. We’re praying for his speedy recovery, and would appreciate the prayers of others." — Mike Gabbard, Hawaii State Senator
According to the Honolulu Police Department (HPD), the incident, described as a "Stranger Danger Incident," took place at a hotel pool area. Authorities stated that Gabbard allegedly offered gum and money to children, including a 9-year-old boy, if they would go with him. Investigators reported that he requested the children’s names and recorded them in a notebook before leaving the area after they declined his offers. A woman who witnessed the alleged interaction subsequently notified police, prompting the investigation that led to Gabbard's identification and arrest.
Batarti Gabbard is the eldest son of Hawaii state Senator Mike Gabbard (D) and Carol Gabbard. His sister, Tulsi Gabbard, previously served as President Donald Trump’s Director of National Intelligence. She resigned from the role in June, with reports indicating her departure was related to her husband’s diagnosis with a rare form of cancer.
Following the arrest, Batarti Gabbard’s parents released a public statement addressing their son's situation. They indicated that their son had experienced mental health challenges in the past, but had been stable for approximately a decade. However, they noted that he recently began displaying concerning behavior. The statement detailed that he started acting erratically after using marijuana, leading his wife to ask him to leave their home. "Several days ago, he started acting erratically, as a result of smoking pot," the statement read. "His wife kicked him out of the house, so he’s been sleeping on the streets."
The family's statement further described Gabbard's recent behavior, including giving away his vehicle, losing his identification and phone, and changing his name to Batarti and "Jim Morrison Jr." They mentioned that he was experiencing what they characterized as delusions of being a rock star. A relative reportedly brought Gabbard to Queen’s Hospital for a psychological evaluation. The family stated that Gabbard informed doctors that blood tests would reveal substances, including cocaine and marijuana, in his system. He was subsequently admitted for a 72-hour hold for medical monitoring.
In connection with these events, Batarti Gabbard's wife, Kimberley Gabbard, filed a petition seeking a protective order against him, citing concerns about his behavior. Court records reviewed by Newsweek indicate that this petition was rejected. She reportedly described his actions as erratic, impulsive, and unusual, expressing fear for her safety.
Beyond the custodial interference charge, Batarti Gabbard was also arrested and charged in an unrelated theft case. Court records show he pleaded not guilty to the theft charge and was released following his arraignment. A hearing for the theft charge is scheduled for August 14. As of now, no court date has been set for the custodial interference charge.
Hawaii state Senator Mike Gabbard addressed his son's condition, confirming that Batarti was receiving treatment. He asked for public prayers for his son's recovery. "We love him, and asked him to follow the protocol at the hospital, which he says he will do," Senator Gabbard told Fox News Digital, as reported by The Independent. "We’re praying for his speedy recovery, and would appreciate the prayers of others." Tulsi Gabbard has not yet issued any public comments regarding her brother's arrest or the family's statement.
The incident highlights the complex challenges families face when dealing with mental health crises and alleged criminal behavior, particularly when a public figure is involved. The legal process for both charges is ongoing, with further court proceedings anticipated. The family continues to emphasize the mental health aspect as a central factor in Batarti Gabbard's recent actions, underscoring the broader societal implications of mental health support and public safety.
