By Elizabeth Kamara
A bench warrant has been issued for Samuel A. Beckley, a businessman specializing in vehicle spare parts at No.1 Campbell Street, Freetown.
The warrant was issued due to his failure to appear in court to answer charges brought against him by Senior Solicitor Demba Barrie Esq. of the Sierra Leone Bar Association.
The case, a private criminal summons, is being heard before Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No.2 in Freetown.
The bench warrant was issued when Beckley did not appear in court as the matter was mentioned. Defense lawyer Jesse M. Jengo Esq. confirmed that Beckley had been served but failed to attend the hearing, describing it as disrespect to the bench. He subsequently applied for a bench warrant, which Magistrate Bangura granted.
Beckley faces five charges, including threatening language and abusive language, contrary to Section 3(1) and Section 3(iv) of the Public Order Act No.46 of 1965. The charges detail incidents that occurred on December 27, 2023, at approximately 9:43 PM in Freetown.
According to the statements of offense, Beckley used threatening and abusive language against lawyer Demba Barrie via WhatsApp calls.
Threatening Language: Beckley allegedly threatened Barrie, stating, “ar go kill u wait and see,” intending to provoke a breach of the peace.
Abusive Language: Beckley allegedly used abusive language with the intent to provoke Barrie, including the remark, “dem no born u fine.”
Insulting Conduct: Beckley allegedly insulted Barrie with phrases such as “u na basta dog” and “set u backside mot,” intending to provoke a breach of the peace.
At the hearing, lawyer Demba Barrie was present, while Beckley was absent. The matter has been adjourned to June 17, 2024.
