About

The Hawai‘i Crime Lab seeks to use social science to help Hawai‘i’s citizens and policymakers better understand crime and punishment. We engage in “translational criminology” by providing context for what residents and visitors see in the news and by explaining what cutting-edge social science has to say about criminal justice. We also support “citizen criminology” in which citizens can use criminology in their own lives, while reading the news, walking through their neighborhoods, or enjoying this beautiful ʻāina. Finally, we seek to provide experiences to our students who can practice data analysis, critical thinking skills, and communication.

We take a neutral stance on questions of morality and what precisely anyone should do or think about crime and punishment. Instead, we seek to inform. What readers do with the information we provide is up to them!

We welcome inquiries from the public. A contact form will be available soon!