Refrain from drinking and driving — but if needed cops will take you home

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A few people were arrested charged with misdemeanors and taken into custody to await the next sitting of District Court over the Christmas holiday during the Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) roadblocks. According to a report from DPS, there were no fatalities or even accidents during the long week.

Reports from several senior officers who were on duty say the few people who were arrested were charged with misdemeanor offenses such as driving under the influence of alcohol and disturbing the public peace.

A man was arrested by police in Nuuuli after he punched another man in the face during a drinking session with his friends. The victim received minor injuries on the left side of the face.

Last week, DPS kicked-off their roadblocks, which run for two weeks and are still happening. DPS is asking members of the public to “conduct yourselves accordingly during the holidays … police will be out in full force.”

As American Samoa is approaching New Years Eve this week, DPS is asking that everyone, including all ASG employees, conduct themselves in an appropriate manner when attending parties and going to nightclubs.

“We’re more than happy to take you home, or otherwise use a taxi if you consume alcohol, but please, refrain from drinking and driving.”

DPS senior officials said that they have experienced a lot of issues lately because of the number of people visiting nightclubs, and partying, and they want everyone to be safe during this Festive Season.

“We need your help. We can’t do it alone.”

Those who were arrested during the long weekend will appear in District Court this morning for their initial appearances.

(It should be noted that American Samoa is at Code Blue level of its COVID-19 Emergency Declaration.)