Articles

Magistrate Joseph Harris at the Monrovia City Court Tuesday described as “shameful and disappointing” the statement by Solicitor-General Wilkins Wright, blaming magistrates for the over crowdedness of the Monrovia Central Prison.

“Cllr. Wright knows the facts and should not use the names of magistrates as a scapegoat. We do not invite cases. State prosecutors bring in most of the suspects with cases. Should we let them go when they are accused of allegedly committing crimes?” he asked.

In a statement Monday during the opening of the August term of criminal courts A, B, C and E at the Temple of Justice, Cllr. Wright blamed magistrates for over crowdedness of the central prison, but did not elaborate.

He urged the judges “to please shut (the prison) or stop sending people to jail because for every 5 persons released they receive 15 persons” more. The facility was built for 375 persons, but 1,015 persons detained there causing international criticisms.

Magistrate Harris, who is one of the three magistrates at the Monrovia City Court, said “magistrates’ action to send suspects to jail was not out of order…but in keeping with law; and the government chief prosecutor knows that.”

“The Solicitor-General knows what is responsible for the crowdedness of the Monrovia Central Prison, and should stop using the names of magistrates as a scapegoat,” Magistrate Harris emphasized.

“If the Cllr. Wright wants to be heard, there are so many ways that can be done, but not to tarnish the reputation of other people. We are professional people and not bond free magistrates,” Harris noted.

But the other two magistrates at the Temple of Justice—Nelson Chineh and James Dudu—reserved comments, only saying, “Cllr. Wright is entitled to his opinion.”