Criminal Court ‘A’ at the Temple of Justice has ordered a mental capacity evaluation for Foday Emery Johnson.
Johnson is accused of participating in the recent alleged armed robbery at EcoBank-Liberia.
The ruling, handed down by Presiding Judge Roosevelt Z. Willie during the 28th Day Jury Sitting of the August Term, followed a motion from Johnson’s defense team.
His lawyers argued that medical records and ongoing treatment indicate serious mental health conditions that could affect his ability to stand immediate trial.
Johnson is facing multiple charges, including armed robbery, attempted murder, and illegal possession of a lethal weapon.
Defense counsel maintained that forcing the case forward without assessing their client’s mental state risked a miscarriage of justice.
Medical documents submitted to the court from ELWA Hospital and a facility in Cyprus, revealed that Johnson has been diagnosed with ‘generalized anxiety disorder’ (GAD) and bipolar disorder, presenting symptoms of mania, depression and anxiety. This means he has developed a brain problem.
His attorneys contend these conditions undermine his capacity to comprehend court proceedings or adequately participate in his defense.
In his ruling, Judge Willie cited Chapter 6, Subsection 6.2 of the Criminal Procedure Law, which empowers courts to order mental evaluations when questions arise about a defendant’s competency.
“The Court grants the Bill of Information in part,” Judge Willie stated.
“The portion that has to do with ordering a mental capacity evaluation of the Informant is granted. However, the request for temporary or compassionate release is denied.”
Johnson will now be transferred from the Monrovia Central Prison to the E.S. Grant Hospital, where doctors are expected to conduct a full mental capacity evaluation.
The hospital has meanwhile, been instructed to submit its report to the court no later than Monday, September 22, 2025, at 2:p.m.
Until then, the case against Johnson will remain on hold, pending the court determination of whether he is mentally fit to face trial.