By Mamajah Jalloh
A 25-year-old mason, Augustine Dassama, was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown by Magistrate Mamakoh Saio Kallon of the Pademba Road Court No. 5. Dassama was convicted on a charge of Fraudulent Conversion, contrary to Section 20(1)(iv)(a) of the Larceny Act of 1916.
The incident occurred on Saturday, November 9, 2024, in Leicester, Mountain Rural District, Western Area. According to the prosecution, Dassama fraudulently converted several items entrusted to him for safekeeping by Jane Bewoh. The items included two full-set LG air conditioners, one indoor air conditioner, a 10,000-watt stabilizer, a money-counting machine, and other assorted goods with a total value of 65,325 Leones.
When the charge was read in court, Dassama pleaded guilty. Prosecutor Sergeant 5598 Santigie Koroma informed the court that the accused had no prior criminal record. Dassama, who represented himself, pleaded for mercy, citing his regret and cooperation during the proceedings.
Magistrate Kallon acknowledged his plea for mitigation and the fact that he did not waste the court’s time. However, she emphasized the need for deterrence and sentenced Dassama to 36 months in prison.
