Ads by Google Ads by Google

New development in case against Gov’s Chief of Staff

The Governor’s Chief of Staff, Fiu Johnny Saelua
ausage@samoanews.com

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — District Court Judge Fiti Sunia has continued the case of the Governor’s Chief of Staff until Nov. 14, 2018.

When Fiu John Saelua’s case was called in court yesterday morning, Independent Prosecutor David Vargas informed the court that they have reached an agreement with the defense, and they are prepared to file a plea agreement under seal.

Vargas also informed the court that the government has a new development in this case, and he asked to schedule another hearing after Nov. 12.

According to Vargas, he will be traveling off island, but he will return on Nov. 12.

Defense attorney Marcellus T. Uiagalelei did not object to the government’s motion for a continuance. He said they discussed the matter with counsel Vargas, and both he and his client have agreed to the continuance.

Uiagalelei then asked the court for permission to allow his client to travel off island for work purposes. He told the court that his client is scheduled to depart next Thursday, but will be back on island Nov. 12, on the same flight as counsel Vargas.

Sunia granted the defense’s motion to allow Fiu to travel off island, and then set another hearing for Nov. 14.

BACKGROUND

District Court Judge Fiti Sunia, earlier this month dismissed without prejudice the felony charge of first degree sexual abuse against the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Fiu Johnny Saelua, after the government failed to produce any witnesses during a preliminary examination (PX).

Dismissing without prejudice means that charges can be filed again at a later date.

“Well, because the government does not wish to call any witnesses, there is no reason for the court to determine if there is any probable cause to bind the felony charge over to the High Court. So, the felony charge against Fiu is now dismissed without prejudice,” Sunia said.

The misdemeanor charge still remains.