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Get your alcohol problem in check Judge Elvis P. Patea warns

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ausage@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Judge Elvis P. Patea warns says Iosua Lemi needs to find a way to address his alcohol problem, as it’s clear from court records that Iosua Lemi has been in and out of court since 2010 for cases stemming from alcohol use.

Lemi, 46, was taken into custody last Saturday afternoon after family members contacted police because he was intoxicated, causing trouble, and swearing at neighbors and others.

He also assaulted a man who tried to calm him down by punching him in the face twice and then throwing an empty beer bottle at him. A neighbor told police that he got into an argument with Lemi, “who was drunk” and started swearing, according to court information. Lemi said he was not afraid of beating anyone up.

En route to the police station, cops detected a “strong odor” of alcohol on Lemi’s breath and clothes. He had to be helped into the police station because he could barely stand, let alone walk. He was released on his own recognizance (OR) after he appeared in court this week for his initial appearance.

Lemi is charged with third degree assault, public peace disturbance, and trespass — all misdemeanors. Pretrial conference is Feb. 12th. Conditions of release include not making any contact with the government’s witnesses, including the victim and his family.