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Another domestic abuse case — and as usual — alcohol involved

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reporters@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A 43-year-old man from Ottoville was arrested Wednesday night on the allegation that he assaulted his wife while he was under the influence.

The wife was present with noticeable bruises on her right eye when her husband made his initial appearance in District Court last week. The man denied the charges of public peace disturbance and third degree assault against him.

The government claims that the defendant came home drunk and assaulted his wife by throwing multiple punches at her face. (Samoa News understands that the victim has informed prosecutors that she wants her husband to return home).

The court released the man on his own recognizance subject to the following conditions: He has to remain law abiding, remain drug and alcohol free, and maintain the peace within his family at all times.

“The only reason why you are allowed to go back home is because your wife has asked the government and the court to allow you to return home,” said the judge. “But, if you violate any of these conditions, no matter how hard your wife asks the court to release you back home, you will be locked up at the TCF or find another place to stay until this matter is resolved. Do you understand?”

“So, it's up to you now, whether you want to obey the court or yourself,” the judge concluded.