The governor’s Chief of Staff Fiu Johnny Saelua admitted in court today that he had physical contact with another person knowing that his actions was offensive to the other person.
Fiu pled no contest to the amended charge of third degree assault, a class C misdemeanor, stemming from allegations made by a young woman who had lived with his family for many years that he sexually assaulted her,
Fiu had originally been charged with first degree sexual abuse and misdemeanor second degree sexual abuse.
The more serious charge was dismissed when the prosecution said it had no witnesses to call for the defendant’s preliminary examination.
This was after the court declined a motion by independent prosecutor David Vargas to have a closed hearing.
That left only the misdemeanor charge of second degree sexual abuse.
Under a sealed plea agreement, Fiu pled guilty this morning to the amended charge of third degree sexual assault.
In court today, Vargas said that there are other cases that he’s looking into and needs cooperation on, hence his request to file the plea agreement for Fiu under seal.
Judge Fiti Sunia said he hadn’t seen the documents and called a brief recess.
When Fiu’s case was called again, the judge said he had received the amended complaint and Fiu’s attorney Marcellus Tala Uiagalelei also indicated that he had a copy.
When the judge asked Fiu how he pleads to the sole charge of third degree assault the defendant said in a loud clear voice “no contest your honor. ”
The judge then asked, “Do you admit that you caused physical contact with another knowing the contact was offensive…?”
Saelua answered “yes”.
The judge accepted Fiu’s no contest plea and set sentencing for December 7.
Out side the courtroom, Independent Prosecutor Vargas said he’s not able to comment on the case because he’s under strict instructions from the court not to do so.
He said there are other cases that he is investigating which are related to this case and this is the reason for his request to file the plea agreement for Fiu under seal.
