Criminal Court “A” Judge Roosevelt Willie has refused to release six defendants jailed in connection with the December 2024 arson attack on the Capitol Building, despite initially approving a $500,000 property bond. The defendants, Christian Kofa, John Nyanti, Eric Susay, Thomas Isaac Etheridge, Stephen Broh, and Gabriel Fansieh, face multiple felony charges, including arson, criminal conspiracy, attempted murder, and illegal possession of firearms.
The judge’s unexpected change of heart has led to serious accusations of interference involving National Security Advisor to President Joseph Boakai, Atty Samuel Kofi Woods. The defense team, along with the families of the defendants, firmly believe that outside influences are swaying Judge Willie’s rulings. Atty Woods, who holds the position of National Security Advisor, lacks any experience in law enforcement, military, or security science, with his office annual budget of $300,000. In addition to Woods, Minister of Justice Oswald Tweh and Inspector General Gregory Coleman are facing accusations of torturing Andrew Lawson and Albert Weah, who are currently on trial for their supposed roles in the arson attack on the Capitol Building.
The Panoramic Justice Group, based in Washington, D.C., is calling U.S. Congress man Chris Smith to hold a hearing on visa restrictions on Judge Roosevelt Willie and the revocation united states legal Status and sanctioning National Security Advisor Samuel Kofi Woods, Justice Minister Oswald Tweh, and Inspector General of Police Gregory Coleman their interference with the judiciary process.
The families of the defendants are demanding Judge Willie’s recusal from the case, citing concerns over alleged bias and excessive bail conditions. They argue that the requirement for four human sureties per defendant is discriminatory and unconstitutional. The families point out that four lawmakers co-indicted in the same case were released on a $440,000 property bond without human sureties, highlighting the perceived disparity in treatment.
The prosecution has filed a formal objection to the bail bond, arguing that the defendants pose a flight risk and have attempted to intimidate witnesses. They also claim that the property valuation bond submitted to secure the defendants’ release is materially flawed, with an unpaid tax liability of $75,000 that disqualifies it as valid collateral.
When President Boakai visited the fire incident scene at the Capitol Building, he made a statement suggesting that the building was burnt by hooligans, which was highly prejudicial. This statement, coupled with the Inspector General’s remarks, compromised the integrity of the case and potentially interfered with the investigation.
As the case continues to unfold, the defense team is considering filing a motion demanding Judge Willie’s recusal, while the prosecution will argue its objections to the bail bond. The outcome will have significant implications for the defendants and the integrity of the judicial process.