Court Grants Agradaa’s Plea Bargain in Ongoing Fraud Case
The Accra Circuit Court has approved a plea bargain request
filed by controversial evangelist and founder of Heaven Way Champion International Ministry,
Patricia Asiedua
, popularly known as
Nana Agradaa
or
Mama Pat
, marking a major turning point in her long-running criminal trial.
The decision paves the way for a negotiated settlement between Agradaa and state prosecutors after months of legal tussle involving allegations of fraud and money-doubling schemes brought against her by several church members.
Plea Bargain Accepted
Presiding Judge (Name may vary depending on actual court details) granted the application after prosecutors confirmed to the court that both parties had reached an understanding consistent with the country’s plea-bargaining laws, which were formally adopted under the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) (Amendment) Act, 2022 (Act 1079).
The judge is expected to deliver final directions on the agreed terms at the next adjourned date.
Background of the Case
Agradaa was arrested in October 2022 following multiple accusations from her congregants, who alleged she had invited them to her church for a “special all-night service” where she promised financial breakthroughs and “doubling of money.”
Many victims claimed they lost thousands of Ghana cedis in the supposed scheme.
She pleaded not guilty to several charges including:
- Defrauding by false pretenses
- Charismatic fraud
- Operating a money-doubling scheme
- Dissemination of false information
The approval of her plea bargain suggests she may now accept responsibility for some charges in exchange for reduced penalties or restitution arrangements.
What the Plea Deal Means
Under Ghana’s plea-bargaining framework, accused persons can negotiate:
- Reduced charges
- Lower sentences
- Payment of compensation or restitution
- Alternative sentencing options
Sources close to the case say the agreement could involve repayment to victims, public apology, and possible non-custodial sentencing, though prosecution has not yet disclosed full details.
Reactions From the Public
The development has sparked mixed reactions:
- Supporters of Agradaa say the plea bargain will allow her to “start afresh” and continue her ministry.
- Critics, particularly victims of the alleged scam, argue that the state must ensure full repayment and deterrent sanctions to prevent similar spiritual-fraud cases.
Social media has also erupted with commentary, with many expressing surprise that the widely publicized case has reached a negotiated settlement.
Next Steps
The court has adjourned the case to a later date for:
- Presentation of the final plea-bargain terms
- Confirmation of restitution arrangements
- Consideration of sentencing options
If the judge is satisfied with the agreement, the case could be concluded without a full trial.