8 Sep 2008

High ranking matai in Samoa convicted and jailed for sex offences

5:47 am on 8 September 2008

An elderly high ranking matai of Samalae'ulu village on Savaii Island in Samoa, Latu Feo,has been convicted of three charges of having an unlawful sexual relationship with a 14 year old boy.

The Supreme Court jailed the 64 year old for two years and six months.

In sentencing the defendant, Supreme court judge, Lesatele Rapi Va'ai, says sexual violation in Samoa must be condemned and the actions of the elderly matai has denied the young victim the opportunity to grow up in a happy and safe society.

The court has taken into account the defendant's early guilty plea and being a first offender.