The 13th Judicial Circuit Court of Margibi County in Liberia has sentenced three individuals, including a former Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) commander, to 20 years in prison each. Joe I. Logan, the former LDEA commander, his deputy Lovette L. Flowers, and Nigerian national Tony Obi were found guilty of multiple offenses related to the trafficking of cocaine. The sentences were handed down by Judge Roosevelt Willie, following a unanimous guilty verdict returned by an empaneled trial jury.
The case dates back to July 12, 2025, when Quita Dolo Kosso was arrested at Roberts International Airport with a quantity of cocaine. According to prosecutors, 14 plates of cocaine were seized from Kosso, but four plates were subsequently removed, sold, and the proceeds shared among some of the accused officers. The defense, however, disputed this account, arguing that only 10 plates were seized.
The prosecution presented evidence intended to establish that the defendants participated in a scheme involving the cocaine seizure and an alleged US$10,000 payment connected to efforts to secure Kosso’s release. Logan denied ordering the alteration of records or the removal of cocaine, stating that the US$10,000 was part of a sting operation. Flowers and Obi also denied any wrongdoing, with Obi claiming he was merely carrying money to the airport at the request of a friend.
Despite the defense’s arguments challenging the prosecution’s evidence and the credibility of its witnesses, the jury unanimously found Logan, Flowers, and Obi guilty of the charges submitted for their determination. The charges included unlicensed possession of controlled substances, unlicensed importation of controlled drugs, and criminal conspiracy.
In his ruling, Judge Willie stated that the court had considered the facts and circumstances of the case, the applicable laws, and a report from the Probation Office, which characterized the defendants as recidivists. The judge subsequently sentenced Tony Obi, Joe I. Logan, and Lovette L. Flowers to 20 years’ imprisonment each pursuant to Section 14.83 of the New Drug Law of the Republic of Liberia.
The sentencing confirms and affirms the jury’s recent unanimous guilty verdict against the three defendants. The defendants were among several individuals indicted in connection with allegations surrounding the seizure, possession, alleged removal, trafficking, and attempted sale of cocaine seized at Roberts International Airport.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of Liberian authorities to combat drug trafficking and corruption. The sentencing of the three individuals sends a strong message that those found guilty of such crimes will face severe consequences.
Key points
- The court considered the defendants' recidivist nature when handing down the 20-year sentences.
- The case involved the seizure of 14 plates of cocaine from Quita Dolo Kosso at Roberts International Airport.
- The defendants were found guilty of multiple offenses, including unlicensed possession of controlled substances and criminal conspiracy.
