Tulsi Gabbard’s Brother’s Wife Seeks TRO After Alleged Hotel Incident in Waikiki

On July 17, 2026, Kimberley Gabbard—wife of former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard’s brother Bharti (also known as Bhakti) Gabbard—filed a petition for a temporary restraining order (TRO) against him. The filing came just days after police in Honolulu charged Bhakti with second‑degree custodial interference for an alleged altercation that took place on July 12 at a hotel pool in Waikiki.

According to the Honolulu police report, the dispute erupted while the couple was staying at the resort with their two children. Witnesses say a heated argument turned physical, culminating in Bhakti allegedly pulling one of the kids away from the pool despite Kimberley’s protests. The incident prompted a call to law enforcement, who arrived on scene and later filed the custodial‑interference charge.

Kimberley’s TRO request argued that Bhakti’s behavior posed an ongoing threat to her safety and that of their children. She sought court‑ordered distance, a prohibition on Bhakti contacting her directly, and temporary custody of the kids while the criminal case proceeds. The request was filed in Honolulu’s Family Court and included a sworn affidavit detailing the July 12 episode and prior incidents that, she said, made her fear for her family’s well‑being.

When the judge reviewed the petition on July 19, the court declined to grant the restraining order. The ruling cited insufficient evidence of immediate danger and noted that a criminal case was already pending, which would address the allegations. Kimberley was advised that she could appeal the decision or pursue a civil restraining order if new facts emerge.

The case has drawn renewed attention to the Gabbard family, already familiar to the public from Tulsi Gabbard’s political career and overseas service. While Tulsi has not publicly commented, a spokesperson for the former congresswoman said the family is dealing with “a private matter” and asked for privacy and respect.

Bhakti Gabbard remains in custody pending a hearing on the custodial‑interference charge. If convicted, the misdemeanor carries up to a year in jail and a fine. Meanwhile, Kimberley continues to seek legal avenues to protect herself and her children while the criminal process unfolds.