Dept. of Corrections holds its first Academy since becoming independent department

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Department of Corrections (ASDC) announced its first Corrections Academy as a new department and kicked off with a church service this past Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023 at the CCCAS Pago Pago Church.

During the church service, acting Governor Talauega E. V. Ale delivered special remarks including his vision for the Academy. "This is the first Corrections Academy since this Agency was established by executive order in June last year. Do your best to use this academy to develop yourself professionally, so that you may enforce the law with honesty and care."

A press release issued by the Governor’s Office said that since the establishment of the ASDC, the priority has been placed on ensuring that efficient and effective services are provided to the inmate population officer certification and professional training necessary for Corrections personnel to fulfill their obligations.

The four-week Corrections Academy program will train a cohort of thirty-three newly recruited cadets, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and values for officers in the corrections field.

The academy will be led by professionals, including Corrections Warden Papali'i Marion Fitisemanu and Administrator Punefuolemotu Aiumu, in collaboration with three DPS officers: Major Pulefano Tuufuli, Major Maturo Taafua, and Lieutenant Time Loia.

The release emphasized that ASG is “dedicated to implementing thorough training programs with the aim of fostering a safer and more equitable society for the residents of American Samoa, and upholding the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and compassionate care within the field of Corrections.”