Lawmaker supports Le'i's proposal to make TCF independent agency

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A Manu'a lawmaker says he would support the Territorial Correctional Facility (TCF) becoming a standalone agency in order to decrease the number of prison breaks.

Representative Vesi Fautanu said he backs the proposal made by the Commissioner of Public Safety, Le'i Sonny Thompson, for the Territorial Correctional Facility to be independent.

Vesi said the commissioner told the Public Safety Committee last week that the prison suffers from a lack of manpower and adequate resources.

He said the commissioner suggested making the prison an independent agency which would qualify it for federal funding.

Vesi said a feasibility study should be conducted before a bill to make the change is introduced to the Fono.