The legal battle involving Kindness Wilson, the second runner-up of Miss Liberia 2022, took a dramatic turn on Tuesday as Monrovia City Court Judge Ben Barco reserved his ruling on whether to admit a viral video as evidence in the assault case.
The footage, presented by Cllr. Moriah Yeakula, legal counsel for complainant Jumel Cox, allegedly shows Wilson physically attacking Stella Maris University student Juah Cassell on March 31. The altercation reportedly stemmed from an online post in which Cassell mocked Wilson for confusing Liberia’s national anthem with the national pledge.
The video, which has circulated widely on social media, has fueled public debate, with many condemning the alleged assault. However, Wilson’s defense team strongly objected to its admission, calling the footage “illegally obtained” and “self-serving.”
Atty. Jeremiah Samuel Dugbo I, representing Wilson, argued that the video was recorded without his client’s consent and should be suppressed. He described it as “concocted” and insisted that admitting it would prejudice the case.
“This evidence was obtained unlawfully and should not be entertained by this court,” Dugbo asserted.
Cllr. Yeakula, however, maintained that the video is crucial to establishing the truth. “This footage clearly depicts what transpired, and justice demands that it be considered,” she countered.
The case has drawn significant attention, with many Liberians weighing in on social media. Some argue that Wilson, as a public figure, should be held accountable if the allegations are proven, while others caution against rushing to judgment before all evidence is examined.
Judge Barco’s decision on whether to admit the video could significantly impact the case’s outcome. Legal analysts suggest that if the footage is allowed, it could strengthen the prosecution’s argument, whereas its exclusion might leave the case reliant on witness testimonies.
For now, the public and both legal teams must wait for Judge Barco’s ruling, which is expected in the coming days.
Beyond the legal arguments, the incident has sparked discussions about celebrity conduct, online disputes, and accountability. Wilson, once celebrated for her beauty and advocacy, now faces scrutiny, while Cassell’s experience has raised concerns about cyberbullying and real-world consequences.
As Liberia watches closely, the court’s eventual decision will not only determine the fate of this case but may also set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future.
