Ads by Google Ads by Google

Attorney pleads for bail reduction for "hardworking man" accused of assault

Court Report logo
ausage@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A 39-year-old man from Samoa who is accused of assaulting a man using a steel handle of a broom has been arrested and charged with felonious second degree assault and two misdemeanor charges: property damage and unlawful use of a weapon.

Apineru Talifilemu made his initial appearance in the District Court this past week where he waived his right to a preliminary examination. His next court appearance will be this coming Monday at 9 a.m. in the High Court where he is expected to enter a not guilty plea.

According to the government, Talifilemu and the victim got into a disagreement during a volleyball game which resulted with Talifilemu using the steel handle of a broom to strike the victim, causing injuries to the victim’s head.

Talifilemu’s attorney, Assistant Public Defender, Bob Stuart, asked the court for a reduction of bail from $5,000 to $2,000.

Anderson told the court his client is a hardworking man and he’s the only member of his family who works to provide for his wife and two children. He said his client is not a flight risk and he has no intention of leaving his family. Furthermore, Stuart told the court that the alleged injuries to the victim are not life threatening.

Prosecutor Jason Mitchell opposed the defense’s motion, saying bail set by the court is the appropriate amount for the offense.
District Court Judge Elvis P. Patea denied the defense’s motion and bail remains at $5,000; and because he is unable to post bond, Talifilemu remains in custody at the TCF.