Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On July 25, 2026, a concerned citizen contacted the Fagatogo Central Police Station (FPS) and reported a man who was allegedly causing a disturbance in the village of Pago Pago.

The suspect was later arrested and charged with Count 1: Public Peace Disturbance, a class B misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of not more than $500, or both imprisonment and fine.

The defendant was held without bail.

According to the affidavit, a woman contacted the FPS to request police assistance after a suspect, later identified as Solefai Sitagata, was allegedly making unreasonable noises and repeatedly shouting profanities in Samoan.

The disturbance was reportedly loud enough to alert residents throughout the surrounding neighborhood, with several neighbors leaving their homes to observe the commotion.

Police responded to the residence in Pago Pago and upon arrival, the reporting party told officers that Sitagata had returned to his room.

While officers attempted to locate Sitagata, the reporter provided police with additional information about what had occurred.

According to her statement, Siatagata had left for work on July 24 and worked through the night before returning home on July 25.

After returning home, the suspect allegedly sat on the bed and began yelling profanities. She reportedly stated that he continued yelling loudly and eventually left the residence while still shouting profanities.

The disturbance allegedly continued outside the residence, attracting the attention of nearby neighbors.

The reporter also informed the police that, shortly after leaving the home, Siatagata returned with blood covering the left side of his face.

Police later located the suspect and brought him back to the area where the initial investigation was taking place. Police officers later observed visible injuries around the suspect’s left upper eyebrow. Police were reportedly informed that Siatagata claimed he had been attacked by several children after leaving the residence.

The defendant agreed to receive treatment. He was detained and transported to the FPS, where medical personnel treated him and he was subsequently released.

The affidavit also noted that the reporter and the suspect are first cousins. Sitagata was reportedly staying with the reporter while working for Starkist in American Samoa.

After receiving medical treatment, Siatagata was booked. He was subsequently transported to the Tafuna Correctional Facility for confinement.

The defendant is identified as a 35-year-old citizen of Samoa.

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

As with all criminal cases, the allegations outlined in court filings remain accusations at this stage, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

[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.]