A man facing sexual charges has been jailed for 20 months.
Twenty two year old Sivanila Tauinaola was accused of possessing a controlled substance, marijuana when police arrested him in February on a misdemeanor charge of public peace disturbance.
Before he was sentenced, the defendant apologized and asked the court for forgiveness.
He said he wishes to return home and be a contributing member of a family.
Public Defender Douglas Fiaui asked the court for leniency due to Tauinaola’s age and the fact that he has been in jail for five months.
Chief Justice Kruse interrupted saying the defendant appeared six times before the court and his convictions gave rise to probation sentences.
Kruse took into consideration the prison being overcrowded and sentenced Tauinaola to 20 months detention.
After he’s released, he will serve 5 years probation outside of the territory.
