A Liberian court has allowed former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor to leave detention so she can get proper medical care at home.
Criminal Court “C” Judge Ousman F. Feika approved the request on Thursday after her lawyers raised concerns about her health. She had been held at Monrovia Central Prison while facing drug-related charges.
As conditions of the release, Howard-Taylor must hand over all her travel documents to the court. Visits to her home are limited to designated family members and her medical team, including her doctor and physician assistant.
Howard-Taylor, who served as vice president from 2018 to 2024, was arrested on August 19 at Roberts International Airport as she prepared to fly to Ghana. Authorities linked her to an investigation into a large cocaine seizure earlier this year, nearly 4 tons valued at around $317 million, described as the biggest narcotics haul in Liberia’s history. She faces charges including drug trafficking and related offenses, which she has denied. Her lawyers have called the case politically motivated.
She had earlier health problems while in custody, including issues with asthma and high blood pressure, and spent time under medical care before being sent to prison.
The court decision lets her stay at home under restrictions while the case continues.
More details on the ruling may follow.
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