Hawai'i County Prosecuting Attorney Waltjen is pushing for new and improved correctional facilities on Hawai'i Island as the Hawai'i Community Correctional Center (HCCC) continues to face difficulties with overcrowding.
"Our Office shares in our community's concern regarding the unwarranted release of individuals facing serious felony charges," said PA Kelden Waltjen. "Nevertheless, judges oftentimes refer to HCCC's overcrowding as the basis to release offenders in our criminal justice system, instead creating doubts, fear, and concerns for public safety. Hawai'i Island is in dire need of new and improved correctional facilities with the infrastructure to both house serious offenders and accommodate rehabilitative care and treatment, social services, and reintegration assistance for incarcerated individuals to reduce recidivism and promote public safety."
Amid ongoing overcrowding challenges at the HCCC, the Hawai'i County Prosecuting Attorney is advocating for the development of new and improved correctional facilities. HCCC currently serves as the main correctional facility on Hawai'i Island, accommodating the majority of both pre-trial and convicted felons.
As of August 14, 2023, as per the latest HCCC data, the present occupancy rate stands at 131.9% marking the highest rate in the state. While HCCC's intended operational capacity caters to 226 inmates, the current count rests at 298, having decreased from 303 on August 7. Of the total inmate population, 91% are held on felony charges.
The HCCC spans two locations, with its main premises occupying three acres in downtown Hilo and its reintegration initiative, Hale Nani, is positioned five miles away in Panaewa. Hale Nani serves as a platform for offering reintegration support and a work release program tailored for inmates with sentences who will eventually be released on Hawaii Island. Additionally, HCCC collaborates with transitional community residential programs to cater to female offenders. Within the correctional setting, inmates can engage in work opportunities facilitated by in-facility worklines and Correctional Industries. Moreover, they have the chance to partake in community service worklines that contribute to county, state, and non-profit organizations.