By Moses J. Dawoe
/Southeast Correspondent
The Pleebo Magisterial Court has sentenced 38-year-old Joshua B. Odarbeh, a resident of Garraway Down, Grand Kru County, to one year in prison after he was found guilty of attempting to sell his 11-year-old biological son.
According to court records, Odarbeh was arrested on March 20, 2025, following an investigation by the Liberia National Police (LNP) that linked him to an alleged plan to sell his son, Prosperous Odarbeh, to a local businessman identified as Abraham Weah, commonly known as “DJ Cassava Leaf,” in Pleebo City.
During the trial, Odarbeh admitted under oath that he had engaged in discussions with Mr. Abraham Weah regarding the sale of his son in exchange for money.
He pleaded with the court for leniency, expressing remorse and vowing never to commit such an act again.
The court, however, found his actions in violation of the New Penal Law of Liberia, specifically under the charge of Attempting to Commit Human Trafficking.
Delivering the sentence on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, the presiding magistrate ruled that Odarbeh would serve a full one-year sentence.
Speaking after the verdict, the City Solicitor emphasized the importance of upholding justice and deterring similar crimes. “Liberia needs responsible citizens to build the nation—not criminals,” he said, noting that the sentence sends a strong message against human trafficking.
Some concerned citizens have expressed gratitude to the Pleebo Magisterial Court.
The case has sparked public concern in Maryland County, where residents are calling for increased awareness and vigilance around issues of child protection and human rights.
