Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Port Administration of American Samoa is pleased to provide an update on the progress of its ongoing Law Enforcement Academy, which commenced over a month ago and continues to advance the development of its newest law enforcement recruits.

The academy attracted a strong pool of 174 applicants, reflecting significant community interest in serving within the Port Administration’s law enforcement ranks. Of these, 91 candidates met the minimum qualifications to advance in the selection process.

Following a competitive prescreening written examination, 26 applicants moved forward, with 15 successfully completing the physical fitness test. After a rigorous interview process, 14 candidates were selected, and 12 recruits are currently enrolled and actively participating in the academy.  The academy is scheduled to run for three months, with graduation slated for the end of May.

This year also represents a significant achievement for the Port Administration, as it marks the culmination of several years of dedicated effort to establish and implement a formal prescreening process for academy candidates—an effort that was successfully realized for this current class.

“This academy represents a major step forward for the Port Administration and for the future of our law enforcement capability,” said Director Barney Sene, Port Administration of American Samoa. “The process leading to this class reflects years of work to strengthen how we identify, screen, and prepare candidates for service. The recruits currently in training have earned their place through a competitive and disciplined selection process, and we are proud of their commitment as they continue through this academy.”

The Port Administration extends its sincere appreciation to Department of Human Resources Director Asenati Sa’au Umi, Deputy Director Max Tuitele, Chief Sina Peau, and her team for their invaluable support and assistance throughout the selection process.

Additional thanks are extended to Commissioner Ta’aga, Commander Pulefano Tu’ufuli, and his team of instructors for their leadership and commitment to training the recruits. Special recognition is also given to Ernie Haleck for his contributions as an academy instructor.

The Port Administration of American Samoa remains committed to developing highly trained, professional law enforcement personnel dedicated to serving and protecting the community.