MONROVIA – The Ministry of Justice has suspended Mr. Lawrence Bohlen, Assistant Director of Prisons for Operations, following discrepancies in the delivery of a Christmas rice donation to the Monrovia Central Prison (MCP). The suspension comes after a leaked audio recording raised questions about the management of the donation, which is currently under official review.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, and signed by Jutonu Y. Kollie, Director of Press and Public Affairs, the Ministry disclosed that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai had donated 100 bags of 25kg rice to MCP as part of a Christmas goodwill gesture. While official records indicated the full quantity was delivered, only 75 bags have so far been accounted for, leaving 25 bags unconfirmed.
The Ministry said that the suspension of Mr. Bohlen is in line with its commitment to accountability and transparency in the management of public resources. Preliminary findings prompted immediate administrative action to prevent interference with the ongoing review.
To ensure a thorough examination, the Ministry has constituted a special investigative panel chaired by Mr. Standley Cooper, Chairman of the Independent Parole Board. The panel is mandated to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the discrepancies surrounding the rice donation.
The investigative panel is expected to submit its report and recommendations within two weeks. The Ministry emphasized that its decision reflects a zero-tolerance approach to mismanagement of resources intended for inmates.
Officials from the Ministry of Justice reiterated that safeguarding donations meant for prisoners is a priority and that all administrative and legal measures will be taken following the panel’s conclusions.
The Ministry confirmed that the investigation will include verification of delivery records, interviews with prison staff, and reconciliation of inventory to ensure that all donated items are properly accounted for.
Mr. Bohlen’s suspension is precautionary and administrative, pending the outcome of the investigation. The Ministry stressed that the action is not a presumption of guilt but a step to maintain integrity in the management of prison resources.
