The Ministry of Justice has cleared Assistant Director for Operations Lawrence G. Bohlen of any wrongdoing following a special investigation into the alleged mishandling of a presidential rice donation to Monrovia Central Prison.
The probe confirmed that all 100 bags of rice donated on December 19, 2025, were properly accounted for and that staff distributions followed established festive season practices.
According to an official statement released Wednesday, February 4, 2026, the Special Investigation Panel found that seventy-five (75) bags were delivered and logged at Monrovia Central Prison, nine (9) bags were distributed to Bureau of Corrections and Rehabilitation (BCR) staff in line with prior festive practices, and the remaining sixteen (16) bags remain in the possession of a BCR officer pending further distribution.
The panel noted that distributing donations to correctional staff during festive periods is not unprecedented, citing a similar exercise conducted in July 2025.
While clearing officials of wrongdoing, the investigation highlighted communication and coordination gaps within the BCR chain of command, which contributed to public misunderstandings.
The panel also concluded that Mr. Bohlen acted on directives from senior management and did not act independently or unlawfully.
However, it recommended his immediate reinstatement and clearance.
Investigators further found that an audio recording related to the controversy, which circulated widely on social media, originated from within BCR senior management and was released without authorization.
To prevent future misunderstandings, the panel recommended improved internal communication, better documentation of management decisions, standardized procedures for receiving and distributing donations, and strengthened record-keeping.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and institutional reform, urging the public to rely on verified official information as reforms continue.
