Jusu Lahai, a 55-year-old court chairman from Kailahun, has been convicted and sentenced to 14 years in prison for engaging in sexual intercourse with a 14-year-old girl.
The incident took place on November 19, 2022, in Joporwahun Village, Pejeh Bongrey Chiefdom, Kailahun District. Lahai knowingly committed this offense by engaging in a sexual act with a minor under the age of 18.
Before the sentencing, Lahai offered an explanation for his actions. He claimed that on the mentioned date, the child entered his room and asked for money. This request allegedly led him to engage in a sexual act with her.
Despite his admission of guilt and plea for leniency, Justice Banks-Kamara, in delivering the verdict, recognized the vulnerability of the child as outlined in Section 4(a)(iii) of the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act No. 8 of 2019. While showing some leniency, the judge emphasized that as a local court chairman, Lahai had betrayed the trust of the State.
Samuel Pessima Esq., the Defense Counsel from the Legal Aid Board in Kailahun, also appealed for mercy and a reduced sentence. Pessima emphasized that Lahai was a first-time offender and did not waste the court's time.
State Counsel Daniel Mansaray from the High Court in Kailahun handled the prosecution of the case.