BUCHANAN, GRAND BASSA COUNTY – Prince Koon, a messenger at Criminal Court A in the Temple of Justice, has been sentenced to 30 days in prison for impersonating a lawyer in the Second Judicial Circuit Court. The sentencing followed an investigation by Resident Judge Joe S. Barcon, who uncovered Koon’s fraudulent claims of being a graduate of the Louise Arthur Grimes School of Law.
Koon appeared in court on two separate occasions, December 23 and December 30, 2024, acting as legal counsel. His deception was brought to light after suspicions arose regarding his qualifications. During the investigation, Koon confessed that he lacked any legal education or credentials. Judge Barcon immediately sentenced him to Buchanan Central Prison, condemning the act as a serious affront to judicial integrity.
“This behavior undermines the integrity of our judicial system,” Judge Barcon declared, emphasizing the need to prevent similar incidents. He pledged to report the matter to Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene G. Yuoh to ensure stricter oversight and safeguard the reputation of Liberia’s legal institutions.
Koon’s arrest and sentencing highlight the ongoing challenges of maintaining professionalism and trust within the justice system. Legal experts have called for heightened scrutiny of individuals presenting themselves as legal practitioners to uphold the standards of the judiciary.
