A 37-year-old father, from Gataivai and Aleisa, who appeared in Court on Monday, has been given a second chance. Alatise Tuimaseve appeared before Supreme Court Justice Vui Clarence Nelson. He was charged with possession of narcotics, the maximum penalty of which is 14 years in prison. 

However, the Court considered the fact that he was a first offender and that only two marijuana cigarettes were found on him. 

According to the Police’s summary of facts, the accused was drinking with his friends at Aleisa, next to a shop. 

The shop owner contacted the Faleata Police Station to report the accused and his friends, saying that they were drinking next to his shop. 

Police arrived at the scene and searched the accused, finding two marijuana cigarettes in his pocket. Following that, he was arrested. 

Tuimaseve asked the court for mercy, as he was the sole provider for his family. 

Monday was his first time standing before Court, and it would be the last, he added. 

“If you are given another chance will you do this again?” asked Justice Nelson. 

Tuimaseve shook his head and told the Court he would not. Justice Vui took into account his good character reference before the Court, and also the report from the Probation Office. 

Tuimaseve was told to use the chance wisely, because he would only get one.

The accused was convicted and fined $200, to be paid before 12noon today. If he fails to pay, he will be made to serve one month in prison.