Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula has released a statement concerning recent inmate escapes from the Territorial Correctional Facility.
On the weekend before last, seven inmates were reported by police to have escaped from TCF. However, Director of Corrections Palaita Tusipasi Suiaunoa said that this information was incorrect. He said only one inmate had escaped and TCF staff had made an error in the prison count.
KHJ News asked Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula last week if the administration was taking any action to prevent inmate escapes which were becoming a regular occurrence, and members of the public were concerned for their safety, especially since there’s no public announcement to inform them when inmates are on the lam.
The statement from the Governor said: “The American Samoa Government is aware of the recent escape incidents at the Territorial Correctional Facility and understands the concern these events have caused within our community. The Administration takes these matters very seriously. The safety of our residents and the integrity of our correctional system are critical responsibilities, and any breach of security is unacceptable. In response, the Administration is undertaking an internal reorganization and has convened discussions with key agencies to examine the circumstances surrounding these incidents and to make recommendations to strengthen security, oversight, and operational procedures.”
The statement concluded, “We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as this work moves forward, and we remain committed to maintaining public safety and confidence in our institutions.”
Following on the heels of the statement, Governor Pulaalii issued a memo announcing the appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Public Safety Vaipuna Foifua Foifua Jr. as acting Director of the Department of Corrections. Efforts to find out the status of Director Palaita Tusipasi Suiaunoa were unsuccessful.
