The Monrovia City Court has arrested, and held in contempt, J. Jefferson Chesson, for his public comments concerning a pending case before the court.
According to the court, Chesson discussed the pending matter when he appeared on Spoon Talk Show, where he made statements concerning the case in question, and on the presiding magistrate that created an impression of “judicial bias.”
The court said, the matter remains sub-judice, and expressed concern that issues before the judiciary were being discussed publicly rather than addressed through legal channels.
Chesson was on Wednesday, August 19, seen sitting on the prisoner’s bench of the Monrovia City Court, when his team of lawyers pleaded for mercy.
Chesson’s lawyers pleaded for mercy. They described his conduct as an “error in judgment.”
They also cited his alleged remorse, apology, and lack of previous contempt history.
The prosecution opposed leniency, arguing that an apology should not automatically excuse contemptuous conduct, and that the court must protect its authority, and integrity.
The court subsequently held Chesson in contempt, emphasizing that freedom of expression does not permit conduct that undermines judicial proceedings, or the dignity of judicial officers.
The contempt matter is linked to an underlying criminal case involving allegations of terroristic threats, criminal coercion, menacing, and disorderly conduct.
However, the contempt finding is separate from the underlying criminal allegations, which remain pending before the court.
Chesson arrest followed a writ issued on August 18, under the authority of Stipendiary Magistrate, His Honor L. Ben Barco.
However, a hearing on the contempt charges was held where Chesson’s lawyers pleaded with the court to treat justice with mercy.
Meanwhile, Judge Barco reserves ruling into the matter.
