A father of two who was convicted of manslaughter in the death of the matai of his family last year, was today sentenced to 7 years in jail.
Erasi Valusaga has spent a year in pre trial confinement.
In February, a jury found him guilty of manslaughter and assault in the second degree for causing the death of Namu Tuamasaga Aetui.
The defendant maintains that he was trying to protect his father whom the victim was trying to hurt over a disagreement concerning communal land in Futiga.
Valusaga did not speak today as he already apologized and gave a statement at a sentencing hearing last month.
Today defense attorney Marcellus Tala Uiagalelei said his client would accept whatever sentence the court imposes but asked that the judges consider a probated sentence.
Prosecutor Assistant Attorney General Tyler Ganzel pointed out that it was convenient for the defendant to be remorseful only at this time.
He said from the time he was charged Valusaga has insisted he’s right in defending his father’s pride and honor.
“That’s unacceptable,” said Ganzel and asked the judge for the maximum sentence.
The Chief Justice sentenced Valusaga to 7 years imprisonment and a fine of $5,000.
He said he will let the government deal with the defense’s request for probation through the parole process.
