Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A 22-year-old man accused of stealing goods from an Asian store in Iliili made his initial appearance before Judge Elvis P. Patea last week.

Pule Tolai is charged with stealing and first degree burglary, both class C felonies, punishable by up to 7 years in jail, a fine of up to $5,000 or both for each count.

Bond has been set at $5,000. If Tolai is able to post bond, conditions are per usual — to remain law abiding, not leave or attempt to leave the territory, and not make any direct or indirect contact with the government’s witnesses, including the victim.

It was during the early morning hours of Saturday, July 20th that the Tafuna Substation received a call from an Asian business owner, reporting that a young man, who was identified by his employees as Pule Tolai, burglarized his store.

According to the storeowner, several items were taken, including canned food, cigarettes, a case of beer, and cash. Police apprehended Tolai after a review of the footage from the store’s surveillance camera and a statement from the storeowner.

When questioned by cops, Tolai admitted to breaking into the store on the day in question, and taking off with several items. He allegedly told police that he gained entrance into the store by breaking the back door.

Tolai waived his right to a preliminary hearing last Friday and his case has been bound over to High Court where he will be arraigned this morning.