The brother of Tulsi Gabbard, the former intelligence director for President Donald Trump, is facing serious charges. Batarti Gabbard was arrested for allegedly trying to lure children to a hotel room. This incident occurred on July 12, according to a statement by the Honolulu Police Department (HPD).
The police reported that a man approached children, including a 9-year-old boy, at the Waikīkī hotel pool area around 2 p.m. He allegedly offered them gum and money to follow him to his hotel room and asked for their names, which he wrote in a notebook. The children refused, causing the man to leave. The suspect was identified as Batarti Gabbard on Friday.
Tulsi Gabbard, previously commended by President Trump for her service, resigned citing her husband’s cancer as the reason. Both Tulsi and her father, Hawaii State Senator Mike Gabbard, have been asked for comments.
“Our oldest son Bhakti has had mental issues in the past but has been doing well for the last 10 years,” said Mike and Carol Gabbard.
Batarti Gabbard’s background shows a history complicated by mental health issues. He, originally named Bhakti, is the oldest son of Mike and Carol Gabbard, married since 1968. Recently, his behavior became erratic after using drugs, leading his wife to make him leave home. He has been sleeping on the streets and gave away his car. Now, he is undergoing medical evaluation.
A family member took Gabbard to Queen’s Hospital for assessment, where he admitted to drug use, leading to a 72-hour hold for observation.
Protective Order Filed
His wife, Kimberley Gabbard, sought a protective order due to his erratic and impulsive behavior. Her petition, based on his bipolar disorder diagnosis, was rejected. She expressed concern for her safety, citing his deteriorating mental health and drug use.
Batarti Gabbard also faces theft charges. He was released after a not guilty plea and assigned a public defender. The theft case has an upcoming hearing on August 14, while the custodial interference case remains unscheduled.