Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the trial of a man accused of violating local drug laws is postponed until further notice from the court.

Sefo Mikaele’s case was heard before Chief Justice in High Court last week, when the government attorney filed a motion to postpone the trial set for May 4th because one of their key witnesses, a specialist from the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) is unable to be on island on the day of trial due to the current COVID-19 restrictions.

The prosecutor told the court that another option for the government is to let the DEA specialist testify using long distance technology.

Defense attorney, Tala Uiagalelei told the court that while his client is still in custody awaiting trial, he’s not opposed to the government’s motion for a continuance.

Chief Justice Michael Kruse immediately granted the motion — noting the court can do this due to the COVID-19 restrictions. He also said having DEA agents testifying for the government in drug cases coming to trial is something that all parties must consider at this time.

Mikeala is charged with one count of unlawful possession of methamphetamine; and one count of unlawful possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, both unclassified felonies.

Mikaele was arrested when police pulled over his vehicle after stopping him for a traffic violation in August of 2018. When police officers searched his vehicle, illegal drugs were allegedly discovered inside the vehicle. During a body search, officers allegedly also discovered a glass pipe containing methamphetamine on Mikaele.