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Man who assaulted his wife in front of his son says he’s sorry — gets probation

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ausage@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA —  The 35-year-old man accused of assaulting his wife while he was extremely intoxicated has told the court he is sorry for his actions.

The defendant was initially charged with 3rd degree assault, public peace disturbance, and endangering the welfare of a child - all misdemeanors. But under a plea agreement with the government, the defendant pled guilty to 3rd degree assault, and the remaining charges were dismissed.

With his guilty plea, the defendant admits that on the night of the incident last month, he assaulted his wife, who was holding his 15-month-old son, by punching her face multiple times, pulling her hair, and kicking her in the back. The defendant further admits that his actions not only injured his wife but also put his son’s life at risk.

When given the chance to address the court, the defendant apologized to the court for his actions and asked for a second chance to continue to care for his wife and three young children. He also apologized to his wife and kids, and promised that this will not happen again.

District Court Judge Fiti Sunia accepted the defendant’s apology and placed him on probation for 12 months under certain conditions.

The defendant was ordered not to possess illegal drugs or alcohol, and he has to submit to random testing to make sure he’s complying with the court's order. He also must refrain from harassing or threatening his wife and children, and remain law abiding.

The defendant was ordered to attend and complete an anger management counseling program and pay a $125 fine.