In a recent review of Magistrate Court cases in Kambia District, 32 out of 205 inmates were acquitted of their crimes. The review was conducted by Hon. Justice Adrian Fisher at the Kambia Correctional Facility during a Prison Court Exercise. These inmates had been summarily tried and sentenced by the Magistrate’s Court.
This decision was made in accordance with Chapter 17 of the Laws of Sierra Leone, which allows for a summary review of Magistrate’s court cases. Justice Fisher initially received 197 cases, with an additional 8 cases bringing the total to 205. The offenses ranged from larceny and unlawful possession of drugs to fraudulent conversion, among others.
Among the 52 convicted individuals, Justice Fisher reduced the sentences of nine and upheld the convictions of twelve others. Additionally, of the twelve inmates on remand, one was admitted to bail, two had their bail revoked, two had their bail conditions varied, and six had their bail conditions upheld.
Addressing the acquitted and discharged inmates, Justice Fisher acknowledged that the terms of imprisonment were not commensurate with the weight of the offenses committed. He emphasized that this was also a measure to reduce the number of criminals in society.
Justice Fisher took the opportunity to urge young people, particularly women, to avoid drug misuse, especially KUSH, and to be productive members of their families and society. He highlighted that while the Prison Court aims to decongest correctional centers and reduce government expenditure through fair and effective justice delivery, it is also necessary to keep individuals who pose imminent threats to peace away from society.
He encouraged the released inmates to either return to school or engage in profitable activities. In some cases, fines were paid in lieu of imprisonment.
