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Man takes his anger out on his father-in-law

American Samoa District Court building
ausage@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A young man accused of private peace disturbance (PPD) and damaging his father-in-law’s house entered into a plea agreement with the government last week in District Court.

Vincent Avei, who has been released on his own recognizance, was initially charged with PPD and second-degree property damage. But under a plea agreement with the government, accepted by the court, Avei pled guilty to the amended charge of third degree property damage.

Avei admits that on Aug. 28, 2020, he destroyed his father-in-law’s property by breaking the windows of his house and also damaging the doors and walls. He also damaged the side door of his father-in-law’s vehicle.

When asked why he did what he did, Avei said he was mad at his family.

When given the chance to address the court, Avei apologized for his actions and begged for a second chance. He told the court that he had already apologized to his father-in-law in the presence of his parents, wife and children and the matter was already reconciled.

The court sentenced Avei to 6 months imprisonment and a $500 fine. The execution of sentence is suspended and Avei is placed on probation for 6 months subject to several conditions.

“If you violate any condition of your probation, the court will revoke it and you will be ordered to serve the suspended imprisonment term of 6 months. So, change your ways and comply with all the court's orders,” the court advised Avei.