Sam Sesay, 22, has been sentenced to four years in prison for stealing from the residence of former Leone Stars coach John Keister.
Sesay appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 2 in Freetown, facing two counts of conspiracy and larceny. He pleaded not guilty after the charges were read in open court.
The incident occurred on August 20, 2024, at #5 Springer Street, off Johnson Street, Aberdeen, where Sesay allegedly conspired with unknown individuals to steal 150,000 Leones, the property of John Keister.
Following a summary trial led by prosecutor Juan M.S. Bull, witnesses were presented, and the case was submitted for ruling.
In delivering his judgment, Magistrate Bangura acknowledged the charges against the defendant and emphasized that the prosecution bore the burden of proof. He noted that three witnesses were called to testify, including a formal witness, all of whom were cross-examined. The accused, however, did not provide evidence to counter the prosecution’s case.
“The evidence presented in court clearly establishes the elements of the offenses charged. It demonstrates that the accused conspired with others to commit the theft,” ruled Magistrate Bangura. He further explained that the agreement between the convict and his accomplices was evident and had led to the execution of their plan.
Finding Sesay guilty of conspiracy, the Magistrate then addressed the second count of larceny. He stated that the evidence overwhelmingly proved that the accused, along with a friend, unlawfully took and removed the money in question without the complainant’s consent.
“Given that the accused did not return the money, he intended to permanently deprive the complainant of this amount,” the Magistrate emphasized. “The prosecution has proven the charge of larceny beyond a reasonable doubt. I therefore find the accused guilty of larceny.”
Before sentencing, Sesay pleaded for leniency, but Magistrate Bangura described his behavior during the trial as “despicable,” highlighting the suffering and embarrassment inflicted upon the complainant.
“The accused’s actions must be addressed in our society. Therefore, I impose a four-year prison sentence for each count, to be served consecutively,” the Magistrate ruled.
