The Grand Jurors of Criminal Court ‘B’ have handed down a majority guilty verdict against Sam Worlobah, who was standing trial for the crime of murder.
Worlobah, widely referred to in the media as a “fake doctor,” faced accusations stemming from events that led to the tragic death of a patient under suspicious circumstances.
After weeks of intense legal proceedings, including witness testimonies, evidentiary submissions, and final legal arguments, the jury reached its long-awaited decision.
The court session opened with the traditional Sheriff’s Report, confirming that all necessary parties were present.
The prosecution team was led by Atty. Andrew A. Tellewoyan, supported by Cllrs. Isaac B. Williams, Irene N. D. Saie, Jimmy Saah Bombo, and Atty. Bendu Kpoto. Representing the defendant were Cllr. Sennay Carlor, II, Atty. Victor M. Weah, and Atty. Anthony D. Kollie.
Following final arguments from both sides, the jury announced that it had reached a decision. According to the Clerk of Court, 10 jurors voted guilty, while 2 voted not guilty.
This met the legal threshold for a conviction under Liberian law, which requires a three-fourths majority verdict in criminal cases.
“The Jurors have returned a Guilty Verdict, and the Clerk of Court may now pull the verdict out,” the presiding judge declared.
The verdict was subsequently confirmed by polling each juror individually, all of whom affirmed that the announced decision reflected their position.
The court then formally recorded the guilty verdict and ordered the jury to be disbanded, thanking the jurors for their service and instructing them to return to their respective communities.
On behalf of the prosecution, counsel thanked the jurors for their “wisdom and dedication” in reaching a verdict. The defense, while maintaining decorum, formally excepted to the verdict, signaling their intent to possibly appeal or seek further legal remedy.
“To which the verdict of the Petit Jurors, one of Counsels for the defendant excepts to the Jury verdict,” noted the defense for the record.
Before suspending the matter, the court ordered the Probation Officer or Bureau of Corrections to prepare and submit a presentencing investigative report within five working days.
This report will guide the court in determining an appropriate sentence in accordance with the law.
With the conviction now confirmed, the public awaits the court’s sentencing decision, which is expected in the coming days.
This case marks a notable moment in Liberia’s criminal justice system, underscoring the importance of the jury process and the rule of law in holding individuals accountable, regardless of their perceived status or profession.
