A British teenager who challenged his parents in court after they sent him to a boarding school in Ghana must stay there until his exams are finished, a high court judge has determined.
The 14-year-old boy was brought to Ghana in March 2024 under the belief he would visit an ailing family member. His parents sent him abroad following worries about his conduct in London, which involved missing classes, possessing unexplained cash and allegedly having a blade. The teenager disputes claims of gang involvement or weapon possession. After expressing unhappiness and longing for home, he secured state-funded legal representation and filed suit against his parents in February. An initial attempt to return failed when a judge determined he faced greater danger in Britain. On Tuesday, Justice Theis rejected his appeal, noting continued disruption to his education and family relationships while setting conditions for his eventual homecoming.
The boy, who holds dual British and Ghanaian nationality, described his experience as living in torment and feeling like an outsider. His lawyer, James Netto, said the teen appreciates having a defined timeline but maintains his desire to come home. The mother expressed fear for her son's safety if he returned prematurely. The plan requires family counseling paid for by local authorities before any reunion.
The 14-year-old boy was brought to Ghana in March 2024 under the belief he would visit an ailing family member. His parents sent him abroad following worries about his conduct in London, which involved missing classes, possessing unexplained cash and allegedly having a blade. The teenager disputes claims of gang involvement or weapon possession. After expressing unhappiness and longing for home, he secured state-funded legal representation and filed suit against his parents in February. An initial attempt to return failed when a judge determined he faced greater danger in Britain. On Tuesday, Justice Theis rejected his appeal, noting continued disruption to his education and family relationships while setting conditions for his eventual homecoming.
The boy, who holds dual British and Ghanaian nationality, described his experience as living in torment and feeling like an outsider. His lawyer, James Netto, said the teen appreciates having a defined timeline but maintains his desire to come home. The mother expressed fear for her son's safety if he returned prematurely. The plan requires family counseling paid for by local authorities before any reunion.
