Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On February 26, 2026, the Tafuna Police Substation (TPS) received a phone call from a person who reported an alleged domestic disturbance that escalated into violence at a residence in the village of Pavaiai.

Agalelei Fono, was later arrested and charged with:

Count 1: Private Peace Disturbance (DV), a class C misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to fifteen days, a fine not to exceed $300, or both imprisonment and fine; and,

Count 2: Assault in the Third Degree (DV), a class A misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to one year, a fine not more than $1,000, or both.

The defendant was held without bail.

According to the court affidavit, police officers responded to the disturbance call, proceeded to the scene, where they encountered a visibly distressed situation involving family members.

Upon arrival, officers made contact at the residence while also canvassing the surrounding area to ensure the safety of all individuals present. During this time, authorities located the defendant, Mr. Fono, within the compound.

He initially appeared to be attempting to leave the area but remained at the scene upon noticing police presence and complied with officers’ instructions. Authorities detected the odor of alcohol coming from his breath at the time he was taken into custody. He did not resist arrest.

Police acted promptly to remove the defendant from the premises in an effort to prevent further escalation and to ensure the safety of those inside the home. Apparently, prior to police arrival, a verbal argument between the defendant and his spouse had escalated into a physical altercation. Witnesses reported hearing distress calls for help during the incident, prompting immediate concern among individuals nearby.

Witnesses to the incident stated that the confrontation began after the defendant returned home and questioned his spouse regarding her whereabouts earlier in the day. The situation reportedly intensified, leading to a heated exchange between the two parties.

Authorities alleged that during the altercation, the defendant struck the victim with a closed fist. Witnesses at the scene intervened in an attempt to separate the individuals and de-escalate the situation. Their actions reportedly prevented further harm.

Court filings further indicate that the incident placed not only the victim but also young children at risk. During the altercation, a minor child was allegedly in close proximity when the physical violence occurred. Moreover, the victim attempted to defend herself during the incident but was unable to stop the defendant until others intervened.

The presence of multiple witnesses, including family members, contributed to the eventual separation of both parties.

Police reports state that due to the defendant’s continued aggressive behavior and concerns for the safety of those involved, authorities made the decision to detain him and transport him to TPS for further investigation. Both parties were taken in for questioning.

During processing, the defendant allegedly admitted to consuming alcohol prior to the altercation but claimed he was not intoxicated.

Before questioning, the authorities Mirandized the suspect, after which he declined to provide an official statement to investigators.

Fono was formally booked and subsequently transported to the Tafuna Correctional Facility, where he remained in custody pending his initial appearance in District Court.

The investigation remains ongoing.

The defendant is identified as a 33 year-old U.S National.

The affidavit was filed in the District Court on February 27, 2026.

[Editor’s Note: An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation for use as evidence in court. It is not a court decision. Under local law, defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty by the court.]