Tulsi Gabbard's Brother Arrested for Alleged 'Stranger Danger' Incident in Waikiki

July 18, 2026 • Last updated 1:07 p.m.

The brother of former US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, Bhakti Gabbard, was arrested on Friday for allegedly trying to lure children to a Waikiki hotel room. This incident occurred two days after his wife, Kimberly Gabbard, filed a petition for a protective order against him, citing concerns about his erratic behavior and potential mental health issues. Bhakti Gabbard, also known as Batarti Gabbard, allegedly approached several children at a Waikiki hotel pool on Sunday, attempting to entice them with gum and money to visit his hotel room. The children refused his offer and walked away.

Bhakti Gabbard, 55, has a history of mental health issues, including a diagnosis of bipolar disorder with psychotic features and narcissism. In her petition, Kimberly Gabbard described her husband's erratic behavior, including his decision to give away his car to a homeless person and rename himself Batarti. She also stated that Bhakti had been experiencing delusions of being a rock star, claiming to have been renamed Jim Morrison Jr.

Kimberly Gabbard wrote that she had been instructed by police to file the petition after expressing her concerns about Bhakti's behavior. Family Court Judge Jessi Hall denied the petition on Friday, despite the alarming description of Bhakti's mental state. State Sen. Mike Gabbard and his wife, Carol, issued a statement on Friday, stating that their son Bhakti has had mental issues in the past but had been doing well for the last 10 years. They attributed his recent erratic behavior to his use of marijuana, stating that he had been smoking pot and had become 'gravely disabled.'

According to State Sen. Mike Gabbard, a family member took Bhakti to Queen's Hospital ER for a psychological evaluation, and he was subsequently admitted for a 72-hour hold while authorities continue to monitor his condition. Bhakti's wife, Kimberly, has video and photos documenting his erratic behavior, which she claims are proof of his 'erratic, impulsive, and bizarre behavior.' The incident highlights concerns about mental health issues and community safety in Hawaii, sparking questions about what can be done to support individuals struggling with mental health conditions.

The family's statement on Friday also raised questions about the potential consequences of marijuana use, particularly among those with pre-existing mental health conditions. Some studies have suggested that marijuana use can exacerbate mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, in certain individuals. The incident has also sparked debate about the intersection of mental health and community safety, raising questions about how communities can support and intervene effectively when individuals are in crisis.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains unclear what the long-term implications will be for Bhakti Gabbard and his family. Community leaders and mental health advocates are urging individuals to seek help for mental health issues and to prioritize community safety. In the meantime, authorities are working to address the immediate concerns around Bhakti's behavior and to ensure the safety of those in his community.

The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues proactively, rather than waiting until crisis point. By supporting individuals and communities with mental health resources and education, we can work towards preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future. It is imperative that we engage in open and honest discussions about mental health and community safety, exploring solutions that prioritize both individual well-being and community protection.