GREENVILLE, Sinoe County – The Third Judicial Circuit Court in Sinoe County has sentenced a Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) officer, Alphonso Karway, to 30 years imprisonment following his conviction for statutory rape involving a 10-year-old girl.
Karway, 26, was handed the sentence by Resident Judge Wesseh Alphonsus Wesseh after the court found him guilty of sexually assaulting the minor in Putu Junction, Wacaba District.
According to court records presented by prosecutors, the incident occurred on April 13, 2025. The prosecution alleged that the victim was subjected to repeated sexual abuse by the defendant, leading to his arrest and subsequent prosecution before the court.
Following the conclusion of the trial, the court determined that the evidence presented by the prosecution proved the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, resulting in Karway’s conviction and sentencing.
Judge Wesseh imposed a 30-year prison term, describing the offense as a serious violation of the law and the rights of a child. The sentence is expected to be served in accordance with Liberia’s criminal justice procedures.
The ruling has been widely welcomed by child protection advocates and rights campaigners, who say it sends a strong message against sexual violence, particularly crimes committed against minors.
Advocates noted that the conviction demonstrates the importance of holding perpetrators accountable regardless of their professional status or position within government institutions.
The case has also renewed calls for stronger protection mechanisms for children and continued enforcement of laws aimed at combating sexual and gender-based violence across Liberia.
Statutory rape remains one of the most serious offenses under Liberian law, with authorities and advocacy groups continuing efforts to ensure justice for victims and deter future abuses.
