In a landmark ruling, the Accra Circuit Court has sentenced a 47-year-old educationist, Sokah Phidels Load, to 48 years of imprisonment with hard labor for the heinous crime of defiling a seven-year-old girl. The case, which has sparked widespread outrage, underscores the importance of protecting vulnerable children and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
A Disturbing Case of Reoffending
Sokah Phidels Load, an ex-convict, had previously been convicted in 2011 for a similar offense and sentenced to 25 years in prison. This sentence was later reduced to 15 years on appeal, and he completed his term in 2020. Despite his prior conviction, Sokah managed to secure employment in a school, where his criminal record was unknown to the institution's authorities. Tragically, this lapse in oversight led to yet another devastating incident.
The Incident
According to Police Chief Inspector Edna Aningah, who presented the facts of the case, the incident occurred on February 6, 2025. The victim, a seven-year-old girl, was dropped off at school by her father, unaware of the danger that awaited her. Sokah, who had been working at the school for three weeks and resided on the premises, lured the young girl into his office under false pretenses.
What followed was a harrowing ordeal. Sokah coerced the child into a teacher's washroom, where he committed unspeakable acts of abuse. Despite his threats to silence her, the brave young girl confided in an older pupil, who in turn informed the school authorities. The victim's father was immediately notified, and a formal complaint was lodged with the police.
The Pursuit of Justice
Upon learning that his actions had been reported, Sokah fled the school and went into hiding. For weeks, he evaded capture, even sending a voice note to the school acknowledging that he was aware the police were searching for him. However, law enforcement remained steadfast in their pursuit. Acting on intelligence, they tracked him to a container in Santeo, where he was living in hiding.
On March 13, 2025, Sokah was apprehended by police following meticulous surveillance efforts. He was subsequently charged with defilement and put before the court.
A Sentence Reflecting the Gravity of the Crime
Presided over by Mr. G.A Inkumsah-Ishum, the court conducted a full trial during which Sokah denied the charges. However, the evidence presented proved his culpability beyond reasonable doubt. In delivering the verdict, the court handed down a sentence of 48 years in prison with hard labor—a punishment reflecting both the severity of the crime and Sokah’s status as a repeat offender.
A Call for Vigilance and Reform
This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in safeguarding children from harm. It also highlights systemic gaps that allowed an individual with a history of sexual offenses to gain access to a school environment. Schools and institutions entrusted with the care of children must implement stringent background checks and continuously monitor staff to prevent such incidents from occurring.
The courage displayed by the young victim in coming forward cannot be overstated. Her bravery not only brought her abuser to justice but also serves as an inspiration for other victims to speak out against abuse.
Moving Forward
While no punishment can undo the harm inflicted upon the young victim and her family, this sentence sends a strong message: crimes against children will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will face the full force of the law. It is now incumbent upon society to ensure that measures are put in place to protect children from such predators and to support survivors in their journey toward healing.
As this case concludes, it is hoped that it will serve as a turning point in fostering greater accountability and safeguarding within educational institutions across Ghana and beyond.
-GNA
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
