Judge rejects request for homeless sweep injunction

HONOLULU — Circuit Court Judge John Tonaki denied Wednesday a motion by the American Civil Liberties Union seeking to bar the City and County of Honolulu from continuing its use of so-called homeless sweeps.

“We are extremely pleased with the court’s decision to deny the preliminary injunction and uphold our public welfare laws,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi in a statement released on Wednesday. “These measures are essential to maintaining the safety and security of our community, and we remain steadfast in our dedication to protecting the welfare of all our residents.”