Acting Governor vows that security at TCF is a priority for the govt

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Lt. Governor Talauega E. V. Ale in his capacity as Acting Governor personally conducted a “walk through” for “key leaders” at the Tafuna Correctional Facility last week. Those accompanying the acting governor were not named in a press released issued yesterday by the Governor’s Office.

In the release, Talauega addressed the recent prison escapes at the correctional facility saying that the issue is a priority for the Lemanu- Talauega administration. And he announced they have put together a plan to ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future.

One of the primary solutions that will be implemented is the recruitment and hiring of up to 40 new guards. “Adequate staffing is crucial to maintaining a safe and secure environment within the correctional facility.”

Additionally, the administration is taking a closer look at the issue of overcrowding inside the facility, with completion of a new building for Maximum Holding.

“We want to assure the citizens of American Samoa that these corrective actions are being implemented with urgency and dedication.”

The safety of communities remains a top priority, the acting governor assured, “and we are resolute in our commitment to ensuring that our correctional facility operates as a secure and rehabilitative institution.”

On behalf of the governor, Talauega thanked the Corrections Agency staff and law enforcement agencies for their collaboration and dedication in the effort.

“We will continue to work tirelessly to restore public confidence in our correctional system,” Talauega said.

(Source: Governor’s Office press release)