Judge Patea imposes longer probation for man who pled guilty to PPD

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A man who pled guilty to public peace disturbance has been sentenced to 12 months probation, because Judge Elvis P. Patea said the 6-month recommended probation term from attorneys from both sides is not enough.

Lemasanimaleea Mapu was initially charged with two counts of third degree assault and public peace disturbance. Under a plea agreement with the government, Mapu pled guilty to PPD and the remaining charges were dismissed.

With his guilty plea, Mapu admits that on Aug. 10, 2018 he was engaged in a fight - which involved 6 people, some of whom were juveniles.

In rendering sentence, Judge Patea noted that Mapu's record reflects other PPD charges in 2015 and also 2016.

He said Mapu is young, in his early 20s, and the court feels that a 12-month probation sentence is needed, to put him under longer supervision.

In addition to probation, Mapu is ordered to pay off a citation ($50) that was issued in 2017 and a fine of $150 within 60 days.

"Find a job and pay your fines," Judge Patea said.