Gov. Togiola welcomes 55 new police officers at graduation ceremony

(UTULEI) – Governor Togiola Tulafono today welcomed 55 men and women into the ranks of police officers of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) at a graduation ceremony at the Fono Guest Fale in Fagatogo.

Governor Togiola, a former police officer in American Samoa and the Honolulu Police Department, congratulated the new police officers and said that the ideals of honesty, fairness, integrity, impartiality and service to the people and government of American Samoa rests on their shoulders.

“First and foremost, I ask you to live up to attainable standards such as honesty and honesty is the key,” said Governor Togiola. “Maintain honesty by being honest to yourself. Live by it and live up to it in carrying out your mission as police officers and when you maintain and sustain honesty, you can’t go wrong.”

Governor Togiola said completion of the police academy is more than just receiving a badge and police gear. He said to be a good police officer, they are expected to show full respect and treat everyone equally with courtesy and fair consideration, as well as restraint and courage in protecting and serving the people of the Territory.

“A career in police work is an honorable and respected profession and the authority you wield in carrying this badge is very unique and cannot be matched by any other line of work,” said Governor Togiola. “The responsibility is huge and we all expect you to use it appropriately. You will be held accountable if you do not. Remember, when performing your duties, your main responsibility is to enforce the law.”

Governor Togiola told the new police officers that they should have faith in making the many sacrifices that the public expects of police officers in keeping the peace in American Samoa. If not, according to Governor Togiola, they should seek another place of employment.

“I tell you right now, if you are unable to be honest and courteous, and do not have the courage, integrity or discipline to enforce the laws of American Samoa, and serve our people, please, I ask you now to leave your seat and find another job,” said Governor Togiola. “Because a good police officer believes in obeying laws, serve their community with all their heart, have sound judgment in staying away from temptations of the world, and will be rewarded by God through the respect of our people.”

Governor Togiola also discouraged the new officers from utilizing the badge as
self-aggrandizement for themselves and their families.

“If you are not cautious, you will soon find out that your new job will all of a sudden increase your power and your importance and influence, and therefore your help may be frequently sought by your family. Be humble and do not abuse your commitment to the territory as a whole. Keep your family out of your work, treat all the people equally, and walk that straight line,” said Governor Togiola. “Congratulations for being ready to answer the call of duty for God, your country and your family.”

In attendance at the ceremony with Governor Togiola were DPS Commissioner Sotoa Savali, Manu’a District Governor Tufele Li’a, Senate President Lolo Moliga, Associate Judge Logoai Siaki, DPS Deputy Commissioner Filifa’atali Mike Fuiava and Police Chaplain – Rev. Apineru Mataiau.

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Gov. Togiola welcomes 55 new police officers at graduation ceremony