In a recent court case that has garnered public attention, Linda Wodalor, a 24-year-old cleaner at the time of the incident (now 30), has been convicted and sentenced to four years in jail for manslaughter. The tragic event unfolded over a misunderstanding involving a mobile phone and resulted in the death of her boyfriend, Bismark Kwame Afriyie.
Initially, Wodalor pleaded not guilty to murder, and the prosecution had already called their first witness before a seven-member jury panel. However, she later activated Section 239 of Act 30, which allows an accused to plead guilty to a lesser offense in exchange for a reduced punishment. As a result, she pleaded guilty to manslaughter instead of murder, and this plea was accepted by the court.
The presiding judge, Justice Marie-Louise Simmons, acquitted Wodalor of murder but convicted her of manslaughter, citing the activation of Section 239 of Act 30. The court took into consideration various factors, including Wodalor's age at the time of the incident, her status as a first-time offender, and her outreach to the family of the deceased.
Despite an initial agreement with the state for a two-year jail term, the court ultimately sentenced Wodalor to four years in prison, effectively doubling the punishment. The defense noted that she had already spent six years in custody since her arrest in 2018. However, the court upheld the four-year sentence, taking into account both mitigation factors and the public interest.
The brief facts of the case revealed that the altercation took place on January 3, 2018, resulting in the fatal stabbing of Bismark Kwame Afriyie. He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Wodalor was subsequently brought to the station by her mother and detained for investigation.
This case serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences that can arise from interpersonal conflicts and misunderstandings. It also highlights the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions and exercising restraint in moments of heated confrontation.
As Wodalor begins her four-year sentence, it is a moment for reflection for all involved. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Bismark Kwame Afriyie as they continue to cope with their loss. May this case serve as a catalyst for dialogue and introspection within our communities, fostering a greater emphasis on conflict resolution and empathy.
-source starrfm | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crimes
