In a case that underscores the importance of safeguarding public spaces and the consequences of unlawful behavior, a 32-year-old unemployed woman has been sentenced to two years’ imprisonment by an Accra Circuit Court. The convict, Amanda Pascal, was found guilty of unlawfully entering church premises at the 48 Engineer Barracks in Teshie, Greater Accra Region, and stealing various items.
The court, presided over by Mrs. Basilia Adjei-Tawiah, handed down the sentence after Amanda pleaded guilty to charges of unlawful entry and theft. She was sentenced to two years on each count, with the sentences set to run concurrently.
Details of the Case
Chief Inspector Abigail Offeibea, the prosecuting officer, presented evidence that Amanda had stolen items valued at thousands of Ghana cedis from the complainant, Veronica Owusu Boateng. The stolen items included:
- A deep fryer valued at GH¢1,500
- A Bluetooth speaker worth GH¢3,423
- 21 trumpet mouthpieces valued at GH¢6,820
- A perfume worth GH¢586
- Six tins of sardines valued at GH¢200
The complainant, Ms. Boateng, is an emergency medical personnel at the 37 Military Hospital and resides at the Teshie Barracks. Amanda Pascal, a Nigerian national, lives in Teshie Lascala.
The incident occurred on February 15, 2026, following a church service. Ms. Boateng discovered that the trumpet mouthpieces she had kept in her room for safekeeping were missing, along with other items. Upon reviewing CCTV footage from the church premises, Amanda was seen entering Ms. Boateng’s room during the service and leaving with bags containing the stolen items.
The matter was promptly reported to the police. Amanda was spotted in the neighborhood two days later on February 17 and arrested. Some of the stolen items were retrieved during her arrest.
Admission and Previous Convictions
In her caution statement to law enforcement, Amanda admitted to the crime but revealed that she had discarded the trumpet mouthpieces and used some of the other items. Only the deep fryer and Bluetooth speaker were recovered.
During court proceedings, it was revealed that Amanda had prior convictions. While the case investigator mentioned her imprisonment by the LEKMA District Court, Amanda disclosed that she had previously been convicted by the same Circuit Court and sentenced to nine months’ imprisonment.
The Judge’s Sentencing Remarks
While delivering the sentence, Mrs. Adjei-Tawiah emphasized the importance of rehabilitation for offenders. She urged Amanda to take advantage of programs within the Ghana Prisons Service to reform her life, particularly given that she is a mother to young children.
Before sentencing, Amanda pleaded for leniency from the court, citing her preparations for an outdoor ceremony in March. However, the court ultimately decided that a custodial sentence was appropriate given her repeated offenses.
Conclusion
This case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of theft and unlawful entry. It also highlights the role of surveillance technology in aiding law enforcement efforts. As Amanda begins her two-year sentence, it is hoped that she will use this time to reflect on her actions and embrace opportunities for rehabilitation.
The justice system has once again demonstrated its commitment to protecting citizens and ensuring accountability for criminal behavior.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
