MONROVIA – A prominent Liberian social justice advocate and writer, Madam Grace RK Guar, has sharply criticized the recent decision by Criminal Court ‘E’ at the Temple of Justice to grant bail to George Wade, also known as Nicholas Jack Davis. Wade, who has gained a notorious reputation, was indicted on charges of rape and theft of property but was released on a bond of USD 25,000 secured by Sky Insurance Company.
Judge Serena F. Garlawulo, who presides over Criminal Court ‘E,’ granted bail on the grounds that the alleged crime is categorized as second-degree rape, which is bailable under Liberian law unless it involves statutory rape of minors. However, the decision has sparked outrage among social justice advocates, with Madam Guar leading the charge in questioning the integrity of the judicial process.
In a strongly worded statement issued today, August 20, 2024, Madam Guar expressed grave concerns over what she described as a pattern of leniency in Judge Garlawulo’s handling of rape cases. “It is deeply concerning that Judge Serena Garlawulo has repeatedly released accused rapists on bail. Rape is a serious crime in Liberia, and the justice system must prioritize the safety and well-being of our community, particularly vulnerable populations like children,” she stated.
Madam Guar emphasized the need for the judiciary to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure they do not pose a continued threat to society. “The safety of the people, especially children, should always be the top priority in any society. If there are concerns about Judge Garlawulo’s decisions, it may be necessary to investigate further and hold her accountable for any potential misconduct,” she concluded.
The indictment against Wade, filed by the Grand Jury of Montserrado County during its August term, paints a chilling picture of a “sex predator” and “vampire” with criminal intent. According to the indictment, Wade lured his victim to Room 320 of the Royal Grand Hotel under the false pretense of a meeting with the President of Liberia. Upon her arrival, he allegedly threatened the victim, took compromising photos, and proceeded to sexually assault her.
The prosecution has been swift in filing a motion to rescind Wade’s bond, citing its insufficiency and the unclear coverage of the four indictments against him, two of which carry maximum life sentences. The prosecution also argued that the bond, issued by Sky International Insurance Company, failed to adequately account for the severity of the charges, particularly in light of the stolen properties valued at USD 17,000.
Additionally, the prosecution contends that Wade’s actions, which involved a deadly threat, should be classified as first-degree rape, a non-bailable offense under the 2005 Amended Rape Law. This law stipulates that first-degree rape includes cases involving gang rape, severe injury to the victim, or the use of a firearm or other deadly weapon.
The release of Wade on bail, backed by surety from Pinky Abu, a former convict who was sentenced to 25 years for murder but later had her sentence reduced, has only intensified the controversy surrounding this case.
While Chapter 13.2 of the Criminal Procedure Law grants the right to bail for non-capital offenses, Madam Guar and others are questioning whether the application of this provision in Wade’s case undermines the seriousness of the allegations and the safety of the community. As this case unfolds, the debate over judicial accountability and the protection of vulnerable populations in Liberia is likely to grow even more intense.
