MONROVIA — The Criminal Court “C” has denied a motion filed by former National Security Advisor Jefferson Karmoh, who sought to be tried separately from co-defendants in a high-profile economic crimes case.
In a ruling delivered Friday, presiding Judge Ousman F. Feika rejected the motion for severance, paving the way for a joint trial of all defendants, which is now set to continue on Monday.
High-Stakes Case Involving Former Officials
Karmoh is standing trial alongside several former government officials, including:
- Former Finance Minister Samuel Tweah
- Cllr. Nyanti Tuan
- Stanley S. Ford
- D. Moses P. Cooper
The defendants face multiple charges, including economic sabotage, theft of property, money laundering, criminal facilitation, and criminal conspiracy.
Court Finds No Justification for Separate Trial
Karmoh’s motion, filed on March 6, 2025, argued that his defense strategy differed from that of his co-defendants and that a joint trial could prejudice his case.
However, the court found the argument unpersuasive.
“The defendant has failed to provide specific and convincing evidence of prejudice,” Judge Feika ruled, emphasizing that “mere allegations are insufficient.”
The court noted that Karmoh did not raise objections during earlier stages of the proceedings and was represented by the same legal team as his co-defendants during arraignment and the start of jury selection.
Timing and Legal Threshold Key Factors
Prosecutors had opposed the motion, pointing out that the case had already advanced significantly, with jury selection having begun on March 3, 2025.
In his ruling, Judge Feika stressed that severance is not an automatic right but is granted only when “good cause” is clearly established.
Citing established legal precedent, the court held that the defense failed to meet the required threshold.
The judge further warned that granting such a motion at an advanced stage—without compelling justification—would undermine judicial efficiency and the integrity of joint trial procedures.
Trial to Proceed Jointly
With the motion denied, the court ordered that all defendants be tried together as originally scheduled.
The case remains one of the most closely watched corruption and economic crimes trials in recent years, involving key officials from the administration of former President George M. Weah.
What Lies Ahead
As proceedings resume Monday, attention will remain focused on how the prosecution presents its case against the former officials and how the defense responds in what is expected to be a lengthy and complex trial.
The ruling marks a significant procedural development, ensuring that the case will move forward without further delay under a unified judicial process.
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