Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A domestic disturbance on the afternoon of March 30, 2026, resulted in the arrest of a 25-year-old male individual after the situation allegedly escalated into violence, threats, and the use of a machete.

The suspect was charged with the following:

Count 1: Private Peace Disturbance (DV) - a class C misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment of up to 15 days, a fine of $300, or both such imprisonment and fine;

Count 2: Assault in the Third Degree (DV) - a class A misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of $1000, or both such imprisonment and fine;

Count 3 & 4: Assault in the Third Degree (DV) - a class C misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment of up to 15 days, a fine of $300, or both such imprisonment and fine; and,

Count 5: Trespass (DV) - a class B misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of $500, or both such imprisonment and fine.

The defendant was held without bail.

At about 4:50 p.m., the Tafuna Police Substation (TPS) received a call regarding a man who was allegedly yelling profanities, making threats, and causing a disturbance at a family home.

Officers responded to the call and arrived at the residence at about 5:33 p.m. Upon arrival, before making contact with the reporting party, officers observed the suspect attempting to flee through a plantation area located behind the home.

Officers immediately exited their vehicle and pursued the suspect on foot, issuing commands for him to stop and cooperate. The suspect eventually complied and was taken into custody without further resistance.

While officers were escorting the suspect away from the residence, emotions at the scene remained high. According to the affidavit, several family members attempted to approach and confront the suspect. Officers intervened quickly, separating the suspect from the family to prevent further escalation and ensure everyone’s safety.

The suspect was then transported to the TPS for further investigation.

Preliminary findings indicate that the disturbance began as a verbal argument between the suspect and his girlfriend. The disagreement reportedly started over a missing mobile phone but quickly intensified into a heated and physical altercation. Witnesses told police that as the argument escalated, voices were raised and tensions grew inside the home.

During the confrontation, the suspect allegedly struck his girlfriend with a closed fist. Family members who were present stepped in to stop the altercation and attempted to restrain him. Despite their efforts, the situation continued to spiral.

According to the affidavit, the suspect managed to break free from those restraining him and armed himself with a machete, significantly increasing the level of danger. He allegedly pointed the weapon at family members and made threatening statements, including remarks suggesting serious harm. The suspect also reportedly directed threats toward more than one person inside the home.

Witnesses further stated that the suspect continued shouting profanities throughout the incident, creating a tense and frightening environment for everyone present.

The situation was especially concerning due to the presence of young children inside the residence at the time. Police confirmed that five children, ranging in age from one month old to eight years old, were in the home during the disturbance.

Family members reported that the children were crying, screaming, and visibly frightened as the incident unfolded. Fearing for their safety, a family member contacted police for immediate assistance. By the time officers arrived, the suspect had already left the immediate area, leading to the brief pursuit observed by responding officers.

After being taken into custody, the suspect was transported to the TPS, where he was processed. Emergency Medical Services were called to evaluate the suspect, who had sustained minor injuries. The suspect suffered a broken thumb, which was believed to have occurred while he attempted to flee through the plantation. Additional minor injuries were also noted, possibly resulting from the earlier altercation with family members who intervened.

At the TPS, the suspect was advised of his constitutional rights. However, he refused to provide a statement and declined to cooperate with investigators regarding the incident.

During the course of the investigation, officers were informed by a family member that there may be a restraining order in place against the suspect, requiring him to stay away from the residence and those involved. However, a copy of the order was not available at the time. Police indicated that they would follow up to verify this information as part of the ongoing investigation.

It was also revealed that the suspect does not reside at the home but reportedly visits the property without prior notice.

Despite the reported assault, officers observed no visible injuries on the girlfriend at the time of their response. She declined medical treatment when it was offered. Authorities also noted that the couple has reportedly been in a relationship for approximately two years.

The suspect was later booked and transported to the Tafuna Correctional Facility, to await his initial appearance before the District Court.

The suspect is identified as a 25-year-old citizen of Samoa.

The affidavit was filed in the District Court on March 31, 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.]