By By: Alphanso G. Kalama
Judge Blamo Dixon of Criminal Court ‘C’ has opted not to consider arguments regarding the justification of Samuel Tweah’s criminal bond in a Wednesday October 9, 2024 court appearance. The former finance minister and his co-defendants face serious charges, including economic sabotage and the misuse of public funds.
During a hearing on Wednesday, Judge Dixon stated that the case, having been transferred from Criminal Court ‘A’ on September 5, was not included in the docket for the August court term. Both the prosecution and defense failed to file a motion to have it scheduled during this term, which concluded on September 30.
To move forward, Judge Dixon has instructed the court clerk to place the case on the docket for the November term. Additionally, he mandated that the prosecution provide the defense with all relevant evidence in the ongoing challenge.
It can be recalled that state prosecutors raised serious concerns regarding the legality of Samuel Tweah’s criminal bond, challenging the ownership and valuation of the properties listed as collateral. They assert that these properties are allegedly owned by Rudolph S. Cole and Refina J. Cole, with the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) unable to verify their existence or value.
Complicating matters, one property, identified by number 33933, is under dispute due to an outstanding tax lien of $23,737.80. LRA Commissioner General Dorbor Jallah noted that this property, valued at $6 million, does not appear in the LRA’s records and highlighted discrepancies in its valuation history.
Prosecutors argue that even if the properties were valid, they would not meet legal standards, as the bond should amount to double the embezzled funds, plus a calculated sum based on potential imprisonment. Additionally, they point out that the bond is already serving as surety for another case involving co-defendant Stanley Ford, raising further questions about its adequacy.
