The payment of a $10,000 tālā fine by United States-based Samoan woman, Perkins Feagiai Headle, to her village over her Facebook posts has saved her from a prison sentence.
She was found guilty of one count of using insulting words directed at the Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, but had 17 charges of harassment using an electronic device dismissed.
In considering the offending, the court placed weight on the $10,000 tālā fine imposed by the village of Fa’ala Palauli.
Her prior good character, personal circumstances, and being a mother and grandmother, were also taken into consideration as she was handed a three months suspended sentence.
Her passport was also released so she can return to the U.S.
Photo: Samoa Observer
