MAN FINED AND JAILED OVER ATTEMPTED THEFT OF ATM MACHINE IN 2012

Sopi Senio Jr. was sentenced on Monday in connection with allegations that he vandalized an ATM machine and attempted to steal funds from it in October 2012. Senio Jr. was later charged with property damage and attempted stealing, and in a plea agreement with the government he pled guilty to the property damage charge.

Associate Justice Lyle L Richmond sentenced the defendant to five years in prison under the conditions that he serve 20 months in jail, pay a fine of $1,000, pay restitution of $4,500 and undergo drug and alcohol counseling. He’s also subject to random drug testing.

According to the government’s case, on Oct. 24, 2012 police were contacted by the ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank for assistance regarding their ANZ ATM machine at the FJ&P Kruse store in Leone, which had been vandalized. At the scene, officers observed that the ATM machine booth and surrounding wall were also damaged. Court filings say, police officers watched via video surveillance a male individual spray painting the ATM machine, and later ANZ employees identified the person as the defendant. The government claims that the defendant appeared drunk and angry in the video.

The government further claims the defendant's attempt to steal money was unsuccessful, and according to an ANZ employee, the money in the ATM was all accounted for, however, damages are estimated at $4,428, which includes repairs to the ATM machine, the cost of a new door, hinge, magnetic catch and installation.

DRUG DEFENDANT ENTERS GUILTY PLEA

Joshua Filiaoli’i who was found with drugs in his possession when he came to Tutuila island from Manu’a will be sentenced on April 2, 2015, after pleading guilty to the charge of unlawful possession of a controlled substance, marijuana.

According to the government’s case, on Jan. 4, 2015 the police received information that there was marijuana found on the MV Sili.

It’s alleged that the discovery was made by the MV Sili captain when they were trying to locate a speaker that was stolen from their trip to Tutuila from Manu’a. Police officers with the Patrol Division responded to the call and Filioali’i was then transported to the police station along with his belongings.