MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii -- The Provost Marshal's Office at MCB Hawaii received six complaints of unattended children in 2002. However, a majority of those reports were based on misunderstandings, or not knowing the base regulation regarding the control of children, which states that all children 5 years of age and younger must be supervised at all times. Children ages 10 and above need not be supervised, although it is recommended that they are.
The most common reports were those of children playing at a playground without parental supervision for a period of time. Yet, leaving children unattended may cause unwanted stress for parents, as they will be contacted by the Military Police.
Additionally, MPD has received complaints from juveniles acting irresponsibly at Mokapu Mall. The Military Police Department is asking parents of children above the age of 10 to ensure that their children conduct themselves in an appropriate manner while in public places.
Parents must also ensure that children comply with the Hawaii curfew laws. As stated in the base regulation, "parents are responsible for their children at all times."
According to Hawaii state law, juveniles are children who are 17 years of age or younger. The law states that children under the age of 16 will be clear of all public places and streets between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Juveniles who are between the ages of 16 and 17 are required to be clear of public places and streets between midnight and 6 a.m.
However, juveniles are allowed a 30-minute grace period when returning from scheduled events. But, all efforts should be made to ensure the grace period is not needed.
Scheduled events include extracurricular activities, school-sponsored events, and any base sponsored events.
Currently, many facilities are being erected or are in the process of reconstruction or renovation aboard the installation. Therefore, it is important that parents understand what areas are considered forbidden play areas.
These areas include streets, nonresidential parking lots, industrial and construction areas, dumpsters, sewers, condemned buildings, vacant buildings - to include housing areas - the golf course and any other dangerous or prohibited area.
According to the base regulation, anyone observing an unsafe condition or violation of parental responsibilities can immediately report the offense to MPD.
The Military Police Department wants to ensure the safety and security of all residents aboard MCB Hawaii, especially children within military family housing.
Chapter 1, Section 1006, of Base Regulation 5500.15A addresses the supervision of children. All parents are encouraged to review the directive for more information.
Call the Military Police Department at (808) 257-7114 for more details.