Evangelist Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison by an Accra Circuit Court for deceptive advertising and defrauding by false pretence.
Nana Agradaa, was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by an Accra Circuit Court on Thursday, July 3, following her conviction on charges of charlatanic advertisement and defrauding by false pretence. The presiding judge, Evelyn Asamoah, emphasized that Agradaa had skillfully executed the offenses and showed no remorse throughout the trial.
Nana Agradaa, the founder of Heaven Way Church, was arrested on October 9, 2022, after allegations emerged from some members of her congregation accusing her of defrauding them during an overnight church service. The case drew significant public attention, and during the court proceedings, the judge ordered that a pregnancy test be conducted on Agradaa prior to sentencing.
The prosecution argued strongly for a severe punishment, highlighting that Agradaa had previously been convicted and fined Ghc10,000 in 2021 for similar offenses. They noted that this fine had failed to deter her from continuing the fraudulent activities, and as such, a more stringent sentence was necessary to send a strong message to others involved in similar practices. “We want a sentence that will send shivers down the spine of like-minded persons,” the prosecutor stated during closing remarks.
On the other hand, Agradaa’s legal team pleaded for a non-custodial sentence, citing her family responsibilities. They pointed out that she has a 24-year-old daughter who is currently studying law at university, as well as a 3-year-old child. The defense lawyers argued that imprisoning Agradaa would severely affect her children’s lives and her ability to care for them. Additionally, they emphasized her positive role in the community, noting that she leads a congregation that relies on her both spiritually and economically.
Despite these pleas, the court maintained that the gravity of the offenses and the lack of remorse warranted a lengthy custodial sentence to uphold the rule of law and deter similar misconduct in society. The 15-year sentence reflects the court’s firm stance against deceptive practices that exploit the faith and trust of vulnerable individuals.
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