By Yusufu S. Bangura
On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, Appeals Court Judge Alhaji Momoh-Jah Stevens sentenced George Adams to 150 years in prison after finding him guilty of treason, misprision of treason, and the murder of correctional service officer Isaac Obi Johnson during an attempted coup on September 10, 2023, in Freetown.
Justice Stevens handed down a sentence of 75 years for treason, five years for misprision of treason, and 70 years for murder, ordering the sentences to run consecutively.
In his ruling, Justice Stevens condemned Adams’ actions, emphasizing the gravity of the crimes, including turning against fellow soldiers and causing significant harm to national security.
“Our soldiers, some of the best-trained in the sub-region, were killed in numbers. A bodyguard of the Joint Force Commander was killed using an RPG—a weapon meant for heavy artillery, not human targets. You stood against your own military comrades,” he stated.
Justice Stevens also referenced the chaos and fear caused by the November 26, 2023, insurrection, which disrupted the nation during the festive season. He criticized the convict for failing to report the coup plot despite knowing about it, allowing civilian and military casualties.
“Those who lost their lives cannot be brought back. Your failure to inform the authorities worsened the incitement and bitterness in the country,” he added.
State Prosecutor Yusifu Isaac Sesay called four witnesses and presented compelling evidence, including Adams’ confessional statement to the police, acknowledging his role in the attempted overthrow of President Bio’s government.
Sesay requested severe sentences for each charge: 70 years for treason, five years for misprision of treason, and 90 years for the murder of Isaac Obi Johnson. He urged the court to ensure that sentences run consecutively to reflect the gravity of the crimes.
“The impact of attempting to overthrow a legitimate government is immense. November 26, 2023, is a day no one will forget,” he argued. “We pray for a sentence that reflects the seriousness of this case.”
Defense counsel Chernor Kamara maintained Adams’ innocence, asserting that his client was not part of the assailants who plotted the coup. He argued that Adams’ association with the Revolutionary United Front Party (RUFP) did not mean he intended to overthrow the government.
After Adams was found guilty, Kamara pleaded for mercy, citing his client’s family responsibilities.
“This is his first coup-related offense, and it will be his last. He has 11 children depending on him. Please temper justice with mercy,” Kamara implored.
Before sentencing, Adams also pleaded for mercy, expressing regret for his actions and claiming to have learned a lesson while in remand. However, the severity of the crimes left the court with no room for leniency, resulting in the maximum sentence.
The sentencing sends a strong message against treason and underscores the court’s commitment to upholding national security and justice.
