Corrupt Jurors Sentenced

Monday, 16 July 2012 11:16

Written by Peter N. Toby

Five jurors linked with attempting to receive U$700 bribe in return for favorable verdict in the US$1 million theft of property case involving Pastor Matthew T. Sakeuh and his wife, Mrs. Plenseh Sakeuh, are languishing with varying sentences at the Monrovia central prison.

Judge Yssif D. Kaba of Criminal of Court “C” sentenced the five jurors Friday and disbanded the remaining batch, saying a credibility problem has developed in hearing the U$1 million theft of property.

In his ruling on Friday, Judge Kaba told open court that while there is no direct evidence to indict these jurors, it is suspected that they all had contacted each other in connection with the allegedly bribery scam before the trial.

“The jurors were wrong to make contact with anyone connected with the case. Contacting each other to gather at the home of defendants was a complete violation of the jury law of Liberia,” he indicated.

Criminal Court “C” Judge Kaba, therefore, slapped the five jurors with varying sentences at the Monrovia Central Prison.

Jury foreman Orenah Cummings and juror Jesse Gbwegee received a 5-day sentence each plus forfeiture of all benefits, while juror Anthony Weah was sentenced for 20 days and will forfeit all benefits.

Jurors Cooper Passewe and Dave Woruah were nailed with a 30-day sentence each and stripped of all benefits.

This is the second time Criminal Court “C” jurors have been involved in bribery scam in return for a favorable verdict.