Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On November 11, 2025, police responded to a reported domestic disturbance at a residence in Alao after the defendant allegedly became aggressive and threatening toward family members.

The defendant was later charged with the following:

Count 1: Private Peace Disturbance (DV), a class C misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to fifteen days, a fine not to exceed $300, or both imprisonment and fine; and,

Count 2: Assault in the Third Degree (DV), a class C misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to fifteen days, a fine not to exceed $300, or both.

The defendant was held without bail.

(Samoa News has withheld the names of those involved to protect the identities of the minors and victims involved in this case.)

According to the affidavit, filed in the District Court on Nov. 11th, officers from the Fagatogo Police Station responded to a reported domestic disturbance at a residential address in Alao involving the defendant.

Upon arrival, officers observed the defendant standing near the roadside and identified him as the individual causing the disturbance.

The defendant was apprehended without resistance, though officers detected a strong odor of alcohol on his breath. For public and family safety, the defendant was removed from the scene and transported to the FPS for further investigation.

Witness statements indicated that the defendant returned home during family dinner and became verbally aggressive toward household members, issuing threats and accusing them of causing family problems.

The defendant escalated the situation by using a three-foot-long crowbar to damage multiple glass window louvers and household items.

During the disturbance, broken debris struck an adult household member in the face and chest. The defendant continued his threatening behavior in the presence of minor children and demanded submission from household members.

The defendant also ordered his parents to bow before him to which they did while a 4-year-old minor was present and crying.

The defendant further attempted to ignite a vehicle by pouring gasoline on it but was physically restrained by family members. During the struggle, the defendant struck an adult household member. He then pursued another household member with a shovel and threw it, though no contact was made.

Due to the defendant’s escalating aggression, threats, and actions involving dangerous instruments, police assistance was requested.

The reporting party expressed fear for the safety of the household, citing the defendant’s violent behavior, threats of further harm, and intent to burn the residence if released. They requested judicial intervention to prevent the defendant from returning to the residence, noting the presence of elderly household members, health concerns, and minor children.

It was further stated that the defendant had exhibited similar aggressive behavior in the past, though prior incidents were not reported, and that recent behavioral changes suggested possible substance influence.

The defendant transported to Central Station for medical evaluation.

He was later booked and transferred to the Tafuna Correctional Facility to be confined pending the next sitting of the District Court.

The defendant is identified as a 35-year-old US National.

[Editor’s Note: An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation for use as evidence in court. It is not a court decision. Under local law, defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty by the court. ra]