The Trial Jury in Criminal ‘C’ has delivered a unanimous guilty verdict against four former officials of the Planned Parenthood Association of Liberia (PPAL).
The defendants—Miatta K.K. Kojolo, former Executive Director; Ernest Vobah, former Finance & Administrative Manager; Peter Collins, former Board Vice Chairperson; and William Gibson, former HR Officer—were found guilty on all counts of economic sabotage, misapplication of entrusted property, speculation or wagering on official action or Information, and criminal conspiracy.
This verdict marks a significant achievement for the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and underscores its commitment to holding individuals accountable for corrupt practices.
The case, supported by thorough investigations and robust evidence presented by the State, highlights the critical importance of integrity and transparency in both public and private institutions.
Under Liberian law, the defense counsels have four days to file a motion for retrial or to appeal to the Supreme Court full bench.
The presiding judge will then decide whether to grant or deny the motion based on the evidence presented during the trial.
Meanwhile, the Presiding Judge of Criminal Court ‘C’ has ordered the probation officer to conduct an investigation into the characters of the defendants in their respective communities pending the sentencing hearing scheduled for this week.
An official release from the LACC commended the Judiciary, the Prosecution team, and all stakeholders involved in the case for their diligence and dedication to justice.
The release emphasized that this successful prosecution serves as a powerful reminder that corruption will not be tolerated and those engaging in such activities will be held accountable.
The LACC reiterated its commitment to combating corruption in Liberia and vowed to continue pursuing cases that undermine the nation’s development and governance.
It can be recalled, the government, through the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), indicted Madam Miatta K.K. Cojolo, Executive Director; Ernree Bee Neeplo, former Program Manager; Ernest Vobah, former Finance and Administrative Manager; William Gibson, former HR Officer; and Peter Collins, Board Vice Chairperson of the PPAL board, for allegedly misappropriating funds.
The money in question was part of a UNFPA project being implemented by PPAL.
However, the defendants denied the allegations when first arraigned before the court, putting the LACC in a difficult position to produce sufficient evidence to convict the accused.
