Archive · 20 Jul 2026
Tulsi Gabbard's Brother Charged in Hawaii Incident
Tulsi Gabbard's older brother, Batarti Gabbard, was charged with luring young kids into his hotel room with money and gum.
He was arrested on July 17 for this incident and also faces theft charges from a separate case.
His family says he has been dealing with mental health issues and substance abuse, which they believe caused his erratic behavior.
He was hospitalized for a psychological evaluation and is no longer in custody.
His next court appearance for the theft charge is scheduled for August 14.
Batarti Gabbard, 55, elder brother of Tulsi Gabbard, charged with second-degree custodial interference.
Allegedly lured minors, including a 9-year-old, with money and gum to his hotel room on July 12.
Arrested on July 17 and also faces theft charges from a separate incident on July 16.
Family attributes his behavior to mental health issues and substance abuse, including cocaine, ice, and pot.
Hospitalized for a 72-hour hold at Queen’s Hospital for psychological evaluation.
- Who
- Batarti (Bhakti) Gabbard, elder brother of Tulsi Gabbard
- What
- Charged with second-degree custodial interference and theft
- When
- Incident on July 12, arrested on July 17
- Where
- Hawaii
- Why
- Allegedly lured minors with money and gum to his hotel room
Family Support
Legal Charges
Mental Health
Family Support
Family attributes his behavior to mental health issues and substance abuse.
Legal Charges
Legal charges filed for custodial interference and theft.
- Name
- Batarti (Bhakti) Gabbard
- Age
- 55
- Relation to Tulsi Gabbard
- Elder brother
- Charges
- Second-degree custodial interference, theft
- Incident Date
- July 12
- Arrest Date
- July 17
- Court Appearance for Theft
- August 14
- Hospitalization
- 72-hour hold at Queen’s Hospital