Inmate faces additional charges after violently assaulting TCF officer
‘Girlfriend’ who is TCF employee allegedly assisted him in the attack By Samoa News staff reporters@samoanews.com Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — An affidavit filed in the District Court on February 13, 2026 identifies an inmate that was arrested on multiple criminal charges, and is now facing additional allegations following a violent assault inside the Tafuna Correctional Facility (TCF). The incident, which occurred shortly after the inmate was booked and transported to the facility, also implicates a TCF employee who allegedly assisted in the attack on the police officer. The defendant/ inmate, Faiesea Kupu was charged with: Count 1: Assault in the Second Degree, a class D felony punishable by imprisonment of not more than five years, or a fine not to exceed $5,000, or both imprisonment and fine; Count 2: False Imprisonment, a class A misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to one year, a fine not more than $1,000, or both; Count 3: Assault in the Third Degree, a class C misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to fifteen days, a fine not to exceed $300, or both; and, Count 4: Disturbing Public Peace, a class B misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to six months, a fine not to exceed $500, or both. The defendant was held without bail. According to the court affidavit, on Feb. 11th, the defendant was initially taken into custody earlier that day on multiple charges, including possession of controlled substances, possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, unlawful possession of a firearm, and possession of a defaced firearm. Authorities reported that these charges stemmed from a separate investigation prior to his transport to TFC. Following his arrest, Mr. Kupu was processed and prepared for transfer to TCF. Officers reported that due to the seriousness of the charges, the defendant was secured using two pairs of handcuffs linked together to ensure maximum restraint during transport. Kupu, who resides in Onenoa, is reported to be in a relationship with a woman employed at the TCF. Investigators later confirmed that she was on duty at the time of the incident and assigned to the receiving area where inmates are processed upon arrival. According to the report, the situation escalated shortly after Kupu was brought into the facility. Once inside, officers began the process of removing the handcuffs. It was during this moment — when one of the restraints had been disconnected — that Kupu allegedly became aggressive. Authorities state that the defendant suddenly struck one of the transporting officers in the mouth while holding a loose handcuff. The blow caused a visible laceration inside the officer’s lower lip and resulted in immediate physical pain. The assault did not end there. Investigators allege that as the officer attempted to regain control of the situation, the TCF employee, identified as the defendant’s girlfriend — intervened in a manner that escalated the incident further. Instead of assisting in restraining the inmate, she allegedly grabbed the officer and physically restrained him, limiting his ability to defend himself or respond effectively. While the officer was being held, Kupu reportedly struck him two additional times using the loose handcuff as a weapon. These subsequent blows caused additional injuries, including bruising to the officer’s arm and further physical pain. The use of the handcuff as a striking object was noted by investigators as a significant factor in the severity of the assault. Authorities emphasized that the correctional facility employee’s role in the incident represents a serious breach of duty. As a staff member responsible for maintaining order and ensuring the safety of both officers and inmates, she was expected to assist in controlling the situation. Instead, she allegedly aided the inmate, allowing the assault to continue. Following the incident, the injured officer was examined, and his injuries were documented. Observations included a laceration on the inside of his lower lip and visible bruising on his arm. While the injuries were not reported to be life-threatening, officials noted that the assault posed a significant risk to officer safety. The incident has since prompted further investigation into both the inmate’s actions and the conduct of the TCF employee. Additional charges are expected to be filed in connection with the assault. Authorities have also indicated that internal reviews may be conducted to assess procedures and determine whether any lapses in protocol contributed to the incident. The matter has been referred to the Attorney General’s Office for further legal proceedings as the investigation remains ongoing. [Editor’s Note: An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation for use as evidence in court. It is not a court decision. Under local law, defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty by the court.] Section: Local News Tags: court report
2026-03-24 17:37:48