Posted on: Thursday, October 7, 2004
Ex-prosecutor Kaneshiro endorses Bainum for mayor
By Johnny Brannon
Advertiser Staff Writer
Keith Kaneshiro, a former city prosecutor who was defeated in the Sept. 18 primary election, has endorsed Duke Bainum in the mayoral race.
He said combating crystal methamphetamine and other drugs requires a multi-pronged approach including education, prevention and treatment of addiction, as well as tough policing and prosecution.
"It's not just a law enforcement approach; it's a holistic approach," Kaneshiro said.
Bainum has said he sees drug abuse as one of O'ahu's most pressing problems, and that he would seek federal grants to open new treatment centers.
His opponent in the race for mayor, Mufi Hannemann, has been endorsed by the State of Hawai'i Organization of Police Officers and by former Honolulu police chiefs Lee Donohue and Michael Nakamura.
Kaneshiro's endorsement brings a well-known law enforcement voice to Bainum's campaign.
Kaneshiro served as city prosecutor from 1988 to 1996, and was the state's public safety director from 1997 to 1998. He was defeated in the primary by incumbent Peter Carlisle.
Kaneshiro said he and Bainum had not discussed any positions for him at City Hall if Bainum is elected.
Reach Johnny Brannon at jbrannon@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8070.
Kaneshiro said Bainum's background as a physician brings a unique perspective to the fight against illegal drugs.
Keith Kaneshiro
Duke Bainum
