Trial for Dr. Ugochukwu Akoma in Jeopardy After Alleged Victim Requests Dismissal of Charges

The trial for Dr. Ugochukwu Akoma, a family physician accused of criminal sexual conduct, has hit a major roadblock following a surprise letter from the alleged victim, De-Anna NB Taijeron. The trial, which was already facing delays and evidentiary issues, may now be in jeopardy of not moving forward at all.

In the letter addressed to acting Chief Prosecutor Gloria L. Rudolph and Attorney General Douglas B. Moylan, Taijeron formally requested the dismissal of charges against Akoma. This comes after a mistrial was declared in the case due to evidentiary issues that led to the exclusion of much of the government’s evidence.

The trial, which began on April 8, 2024, ended with a mistrial a week later. Akoma’s defense counsel, Jay Arriola, requested the mistrial, which was granted by Superior Court Judge Alberto E. Tolentino. Despite Akoma’s motion to dismiss the case with prejudice being denied, the trial was set to proceed on July 19 with jury selection.

However, Rudolph filed an appeal and a motion to disqualify Tolentino as judge, citing a potential conflict of interest. Arriola objected, claiming the motions were filed in bad faith to delay the trial. Tolentino stated he no longer had jurisdiction due to the appeal, leaving the case in limbo.

Taijeron’s letter, in which she expressed disappointment with the lack of support and preparation during the last trial, may ultimately lead to the case being dismissed. She detailed challenges she faced and her emotional struggles throughout the legal process.

Attorney General Moylan responded to Taijeron’s concerns, expressing confidence in his prosecution team’s ability to address the issues raised. Arriola criticized the AG’s office for its handling of the case, stating that his client’s life has been put on hold for almost three years.

The future of Dr. Akoma’s trial remains uncertain as the parties await further developments in light of Taijeron’s letter.