“I do know that Attorney General [Edward T.] Buckingham has stressed working together with federal immigration authorities, and [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] has expressed an interest in Mr. Saluta’s case. At the numerous bail hearings entertained by the court, ICE authorities were present,” Ernest said in an e-mail to the Variety.
Currently, Ernest said the AGO is focusing on the criminal charges against the 40-year-old Saluta.
Ernest added: “We have begun discussions with [Saluta’s] counsel regarding a non-trial disposition.”
“At an appropriate time, barring unforeseen circumstances,” Ernest said, “Mr. Saluta’s case will be forwarded to [the local] Department of Labor (or other appropriate agency) for investigation as to whether he has the documents which would reflect a legal status in the CNMI.”
On Tuesday afternoon, Saluta posted a $525 cash bail and was reunited with his wife and five children.
He was detained on Sept. 22, 2010 when he surrendered to authorities after learning that an arrest order had been issued against him.
The Saluta couple and their children are currently staying in Chalan Piao and the $100 monthly rent is being paid by their relatives and friends, Mrs. Juliet Saluta, 38, earlier told the court.
The Salutas are not answering this reporter’s phone calls or requests for interview.
T
he AGO charged Mr. Saluta with assault with a dangerous weapon, and disturbing the peace after he chased Alejandro Orellano with a knife in Fina Sisu market area last year.
The CNMI Department of Labor said the unemployed couple are out of status and can be deported.
