Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A 42-year-old bus driver accused of assaulting his wife while he was intoxicated told the court he is sorry and he’ll never do it again.

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

With his guilty plea, the defendant admits that last month, he assaulted his wife, who was holding their 18-month-old son, by punching her in the face multiple times, pulling her hair, and kicking her in the back. He admits that his actions not only injured his wife but also put his son’s life at risk.

When given the chance to speak, the defendant apologized and asked for a second chance so he can continue to care for his wife and their 4 kids. District Court Judge Elvis P. Patea accepted the defendant’s apology and sentenced him to probation for 12 months under certain conditions.

He is to remain alcohol and drug free, and submit to random testing. He also must refrain from harassing or threatening his wife and children, and remain law abiding. The defendant is to attend and complete anger management classes and pay a $120 fine.

FAAMANATU VALOAGA

A 30-year-old who was convicted of assaulting his neighbor was ordered by District Court Judge, Elvis P. Patea not to set foot on his neighbor’s land during probation — 12 months.

Faamanatu Valoaga was initially charged with third degree assault, third degree property damage, and public peace disturbance. But under a plea agreement with the government, Valoaga pled guilty to third degree assault. The remaining charges were dismissed.

Valoaga admits that on Aug. 10, 2019 he entered his neighbor’s home by kicking the back door down. While inside, he punched his neighbor in the face multiple times and also threatened him, saying he would kill him if he ever touched his little brother again.

When given the chance to speak, Valoaga apologized and asked for a second chance so he can continue to care for his parents, especially his young family. He said everything back home has been settled, and he also apologized to the victim.

Patea sentenced Valoaga to 12 months probation, subject to conditions. “First condition, do not set foot on your neighbor’s land or in his house. Stay away from that person and if you encounter him in public, walk away from him,” Patea ordered.

Valoaga was also ordered to remain law abiding, visit Probation once a month, and attend and complete anger management classes.