Suspended cop guilty of firearm charge

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 24 October 2017, 12:00AM

A suspended Police officer, Aiolupotea La’auli Talataina, has been found guilty of one charge of presenting a firearm and one charge of being armed with a dangerous weapon.

But he was acquitted of one charge of presenting a firearm in relation to an incident involving one Lene Epa at Malololelei on 4 August 2015.

The decision was handed down by District Court Judge, Fepuleai Ameperosa Roma, yesterday.

The Prosecutor was Vaisala Afoa of the Attorney General’s Office while the defendant was represented by Lei’ataualesa Komisi Koria.

During the hearing, Judge Fepuleai pointed out there were four charges against the Police officer.

“There were three charges of presenting a firearm and one of being armed with a dangerous weapon,” said Judge Fepuleai.

“During the trial the application was made by the prosecution to withdraw one charge of presenting a firearm and that charge was withdrawn and dismissed.

“Therefore there were three remaining charges, two of presenting a firearm and one of being armed with a dangerous weapon.”

According to Judge Fepuleai the evidence was thoroughly viewed.

“One, the charge of presenting a firearm mainly a 22 rifle bolt action to Lene Epa at Malololelei on the 4th August 2015 I find the defendant not guilty of the charge.

“Two, the charge of being armed with a dangerous weapon and mainly a 12 gauge pump action without a lawful purpose I find you guilty of charge.

“And three, the charge of presenting a firearm mainly a 12 gauge pump action to Violeti Stowers on the 1st of January 2016 I find you guilty.”

The defendant has been remanded at liberty until 30 November 2017 when he is due to be sentenced.

By Deidre Tautua-Fanene 24 October 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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