Parents of East Legon accident teen fined GH₵12,000 for negligence.
The Family and Juvenile Court in Accra has handed down a fine to Bishop Salifu Amoako and his wife, Mouha Amoako, following a tragic incident involving their 16-year-old son. The court found the parents liable for failing to properly supervise and control their son, who was responsible for a devastating car crash in East Legon. The couple has been fined GH₵12,000 and given additional directives to ensure the prevention of such occurrences in the future.
The case stems from a serious accident that shocked the East Legon community. The teenage boy, who was reportedly driving without a valid license, lost control of the vehicle, resulting in significant damage to property, including the destruction of an ECG light pole. Thankfully, no lives were lost in the crash, but the incident raised concerns about parental responsibility and juvenile delinquency.
During the court proceedings, the judge emphasized the importance of parental accountability, noting that the responsibility for a child’s behavior ultimately falls on the parents. Parents have to ensure that their children are properly guided and do not pose a danger to themselves or society, the judge remarked. The GH₵12,000 fine imposed on Bishop Amoako and his wife serves as both a penalty and a reminder of the consequences of neglecting this responsibility.
In addition to the fine, the court mandated that the parents sign an undertaking pledging to take steps to ensure their son’s proper upbringing. This undertaking requires the couple to actively monitor and guide their son’s actions, particularly concerning his interactions with motor vehicles. The court stressed that such measures are essential to prevent future incidents that could have more severe consequences.
Bishop Salifu Amoako was also ordered to pay over GH₵8,000 to cover the cost of damages caused during the crash. This amount includes compensation for the ECG light pole and other property affected by the accident. The judge noted that the payment of damages was necessary to address the financial burden placed on public infrastructure and private property owners as a result of the incident.
The court’s ruling has sparked widespread discussion about the role of parents in preventing juvenile misconduct. Some community members view the decision as a fair and necessary step to ensure accountability, while others have expressed concerns about whether financial penalties alone can address the underlying issues. Critics argue that a more comprehensive approach, including counseling and education for both parents and the child, might yield better long-term results.
For their part, Bishop Amoako and his wife have expressed remorse over the incident and have pledged to comply with the court’s directives. In a brief statement, the couple acknowledged the need for stricter parental supervision and assured the public that they would take all necessary steps to guide their son’s behavior moving forward.
This case serves as a cautionary tale for families across the nation, highlighting the importance of parental vigilance and the potential legal repercussions of neglect. As the Amoako family works to rebuild trust and ensure their son’s responsible development, the court’s decision underscores the critical role of family accountability in promoting a safer and more responsible society.
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