An Accra High Court has imposed a fine on Harry Don Atipo, a juror in the Kasoa teenagers ritual murder case, due to his absence during a crucial hearing.
His absence disrupted the court’s proceedings, which were ready for summing up and judgment, and forced the adjournment of the case to October 24, 2024.
Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, who presided over the case, fined Atipo GHC1,200 for holding up the legal process.
Atipo must pay the fine before the rescheduled hearing, while his fellow jurors decided to forfeit their sitting and transport allowances for the day.
When the case was called, the jury foreman informed the court of Atipo’s absence, noting that he was out of the jurisdiction but had promised to attend the next hearing.
The judge pointed out that Atipo had previously indicated he would be present, adding to the frustration of the court.
This move underscores the court’s emphasis on jurors’ responsibility and the significant consequences of their absenteeism in such high-stakes trials.
“So, he has succeeded in holding all of us to ransom, people take everybody for granted in this country. Mr. Atipo did not give any excuse for his absence,” the court said.
Samuel Atuah, the defense lawyer representing the 18-year-old accused in the Kasoa Teenagers Ritual Murder case, requested the court to waive the juror Harry Don Atipo’s fine. Atuah argued that imposing the fine could deter Atipo from appearing at the next adjourned date, which could further affect the trial.
However, the presiding judge, Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, emphasized that she was acting in accordance with the law, and had previously warned the jurors about the consequences of absenteeism.
The accused, an 18-year-old and his 15-year-old accomplice, face charges of conspiracy and murder in connection with the death of 10-year-old Ishmael Abdalla, who was killed in Kasoa for ritual purposes.