In a recent ruling, an Accra High Court has handed down a five-year prison sentence to Clara Yanyi-Ampah, a caregiver who was found guilty of manslaughter in the tragic death of an 11-month-old infant under her care.
The incident, which took place in May 2021 at a school in Agbogba, near Accra, saw Yanyi-Ampah initially pleading not guilty before later changing her plea to guilty as part of a plea-bargaining agreement with the Attorney General’s Office. Originally charged with murder, the advice of the Attorney General led to a charge of manslaughter and subsequent trial in the High Court.
Senior State Attorney Mercy Arthur led the prosecution, which ultimately resulted in a plea-bargaining agreement for a five-year prison sentence. The trial Judge, Justice Marie-Louise Simmons, presided over the case and handed down the sentence, taking into consideration the defendant’s time in detention and her lack of prior criminal record.
The prosecution revealed that the infant, enrolled at the school where Yanyi-Ampah worked as a caregiver, was found unresponsive while in her care. Despite efforts to resuscitate the child, she was pronounced dead at the hospital. The postmortem report indicated that the cause of death was "asphyxiation due to aspiration of food following forced feeding," with CCTV footage showing Yanyi-Ampah feeding the baby in a manner contrary to school guidelines.
While the court acknowledged the defendant's lack of prior criminal record and display of remorse, it also expressed disapproval of her conduct, citing "reckless disregard for human life." The prosecution noted that the deceased infant's parents, who were a married couple, had entrusted their child to the care of the school and its staff.
The tragic outcome serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibility that caregivers hold in ensuring the safety and well-being of those under their care. The court's ruling underscores the seriousness with which cases of negligence resulting in loss of life are treated within the legal system.
Ultimately, this case highlights the need for stringent adherence to safety protocols and guidelines in caregiving settings, as well as the importance of accountability in upholding the trust placed in caregivers by parents and guardians. It is a stark reminder of the irrevocable consequences that can result from a failure to prioritize the welfare of those in vulnerable positions.
As we reflect on this ruling, our thoughts remain with the family of the deceased infant, who have endured an unimaginable loss. May this case serve as a catalyst for renewed vigilance and diligence in ensuring the safety and well-being of all entrusted to the care of others.
-source GNA | curated by Aisha Yakubu | GhanaCrimes
