By: Audrey Raymonda John
Honourable Justice Simeon Allieu of the Court of Appeal, sitting at the High Court No. 5 on Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown, has sentenced Nigerian citizen Newton Johnson to 30 years in prison for the illegal possession of 2.9 kilograms of cocaine.
The 35-year-old Johnson, an engineer by profession, was convicted on two counts: Collecting a Prohibited Drug Without Lawful Authority and Unlawful Possession of Drugs, in violation of Sections 7(b) and 8 of the National Drug Control Act, 2008 (Act No. 10 of 2008). Johnson had been standing trial at Magistrate Court No. 1 before being committed to the High Court.
Upon his arraignment, and following a confessional statement to the police, Johnson pleaded guilty to both charges, admitting to the unlawful collection and possession of 2.9 kilograms of cocaine. He was given multiple opportunities to reconsider his plea, but he maintained his admission of guilt.
Court that on November 9, 2024, in the Western Area of Freetown, Johnson was apprehended in possession of the drugs. He was arrested, interrogated, and later charged with the two counts after a police investigation.
In his plea for mitigation, Defence Counsel Alimamy Bangura Esq. urged the Court to show leniency, highlighting that since his arrest in November 2024, Johnson had fully complied with the investigation and judicial process. He also noted that Johnson is a father of two children and asked the Court to consider this in determining the sentence.
In delivering his judgment, Honourable Justice Allieu emphasized the Court’s duty to uphold the law, particularly in the context of the increasing drug trafficking and substance abuse issues affecting the country. He stated that the problem continues to pose a significant threat to the health and wellbeing of young people and has contributed to loss of life.
“The inflow and distribution chains of these illegal substances must be completely identified and eradicated. The Court has a crucial role to play in this national fight,” said Justice Allieu. “We are fully committed to combating this menace that seeks to destroy the lives of our youth.”
Justice Allieu sentenced Newton Johnson to 30 years’ imprisonment for the first count and 10 years for the second count. The sentences will run concurrently.