Monrovia – Judge George Smith of the Sixth Judicial Circuit, Civil Law Court for Montserrado County, has described the actions of Grand Cape Mount County Senator Simeon Taylor as criminal and a violation of the Constitution. Judge Smith ruled that Senator Taylor’s obstruction of the court’s functions had no connection to his legislative duties and constituted a direct interference with judicial proceedings.
By: Jackie Dennis, contributing writer
Judge Smith emphasized that Senator Taylor’s conduct violated Section 12.2, Paragraph 1 of the Penal Code, which criminalizes the prevention of court orders. He further noted that the Senator’s actions infringed on Section 12.70(b) of the Penal Code, which protects individuals’ constitutional rights to property.
Judicial Humility Is Not Absolute
The judge clarified that while legislators and judges enjoy immunity from arrest or summons during legislative sessions, this immunity is not absolute. He stated, “Any lawmaker involved in criminal activities, such as a breach of peace, is amenable to the law.”
The controversy stems from an incident on December 14, 2024, when bailiffs of the Civil Law Court, accompanied by officers of the Liberia National Police, attempted to execute a writ of possession on the property of the late Williams Lucas’s intestate estate. The team began evicting occupants illegally residing on the property.
However, Senator Taylor arrived on the scene and ordered the eviction to stop. Occupants who had already been evicted returned to their premises, and Taylor reportedly stated that “a possession order doesn’t mean putting people’s belongings outside.” His actions disrupted the execution of the writ of possession, forcing the bailiffs and police to abandon the scene.
Senator Taylor’s Nonappearance
Senator Taylor was summoned to appear before the court on January 13, 2025, at 2 PM to explain his actions. However, he failed to appear without providing any excuse, prompting Judge Smith to issue a ruling against him.
Judge Smith’s Ruling
In his ruling, Judge Smith instructed the court clerk to reinforce the writ of possession and ensure its execution, officially communicate with the President Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senate, advising Senator Taylor to refrain from obstructing the court’s functions.
The Clerk was also instructed to send a copy of the communication to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
Warning to Senator Taylor
Judge Smith warned that any further interference by Senator Taylor in the court’s functions would make him liable for arrest under Article 42 of the Constitution and the Criminal Procedure Law.
Observers say the court’s firm stance underscores the importance of judicial independence and the need for all public officials, including lawmakers, to respect the rule of law.
