Deputy Attorney, General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah has reiterated that the plea bargaining system will not be a refuge for criminals.
This framework allows individuals facing charges to negotiate for lesser charges, reduced penalties, or the withdrawal of charges before a final verdict.
During a training session for prosecuting attorneys, he highlighted that those accused of serious offences—such as sexual crimes and election-related violations—will not benefit from plea bargaining.
“The guidelines should not be an excuse or should not be used as a springboard for the evasion of justice. And to the public, the application of the Plea Bargaining Act shouldn’t be seen as an attempt to undermine justice.
“In appropriate cases where we need to apply the law, the law will be applied. In cases where we cannot apply the law, the law will not be applied.
“And so as you take the guidelines back to your regions, stick to the guidelines so well, make sure those who deserve the benefit of the guidelines get it. Those who do not deserve it, don’t give it to them.
“And to the criminals out there, if you think that by launching these guidelines, you are going to just commit crimes and go clean the net, be on notice, the plea bargaining act will not be used as a shield for criminals to perpetuate their wrongful activities.”