Liberian Lawmaker’s Son Sentenced in Drug Case, Pledges to Fight Addiction

By: TPA News Desk | editor@thepointafricanews.com

Criminal Court ‘C’ Judge Joe S. Barkon on Thursday sentenced Peach Bility, son of Nimba County District #7 Representative Musa Bility, to four years in prison after Bility pleaded guilty to drug-related offenses.

The court suspended eight months of the sentence, citing time already served in pre-trial detention following Bility’s arrest in March 2024 by officers of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA).

During a July 9 plea hearing, Bility admitted to involvement with narcotics and stated that peer influence contributed to his addiction. He expressed remorse and told the court he intends to speak out against drug use and work toward personal rehabilitation.

According to earlier statements from the LDEA, Bility was arrested in the Rehab Community area of Paynesville in possession of a quantity of narcotic drugs identified as “Kush.” The LDEA report also referenced the seizure of firearms during the arrest, though court records during the July proceedings focused solely on narcotics charges.

Bility’s legal team negotiated a plea deal with the prosecution, waiving his rights to a trial and to appeal the conviction. The court accepted the agreement and imposed sentencing in line with Liberia’s Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

The case drew widespread public attention in 2024 after Bility was initially released on bail, prompting concern from some civil society organizations about transparency and equity in the justice system.

He is expected to serve approximately three years and four months before becoming eligible for release. During his incarceration, he reportedly plans to pursue rehabilitation programs and create awareness materials on the dangers of drug use among youth.