Sentencing Act 2016

The Sentencing Act 2016 governs sentencing in Samoa, setting out objectives, principles, and a structured framework for courts to determine appropriate penalties. It requires courts to give weight to aggravating circumstances; such as use of force or weapons, unlawful entry, harm inflicted, premeditation, or bias against the victim’s identity, age, or disability, and adds enhanced aggravation if the victim is a minor. The Act thereby ensures that the severity of the offense, the nature of harm done, and the vulnerability of the victim are properly factored into sentencing decisions.