HI HCR12

Urges the Hawaii Judiciary to assign a single judge to handle all HOPE Probation Program cases to ensure consistency and expedited hearings.

HOPE Probation, launched in 2004 by retired First Circuit Judge Steven Alm, imposes swift and predictable sanctions (typically several days in jail) for violations such as drug use or missed probation officer appointments.

According to 2007 evaluation data, HOPE Probation participants were 72% less likely to test positive for illegal drugs, 61% less likely to miss appointments, 55% less likely to be arrested for new crimes, and 53% less likely to have probation revoked compared to standard probation offenders.

Multiple judges currently assigned to HOPE cases are creating calendar conflicts and inconsistent judicial decisions, prompting the call for consolidation under one judge.

Directs that a certified copy of the resolution be transmitted to the Chief Justice of the Hawaii State Supreme Court.