In a scathing critique, the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children has denounced the Belize Police Department and justice system for their failure to protect Angelita Magaña and her two children, Tishan and Shadia. The family tragically lost their lives when Magaña’s ex-partner, Francisco Godoy, set their San Felipe Village home ablaze. Godoy later succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment at the KHMH. Special Envoy Rossana Briceño expressed profound grief and anger, labeling the incident a preventable national failure. She emphasized that Magaña had sought help and protection, yet the system designed to safeguard her family utterly failed. Briceño criticized the police and judiciary for granting bail to Godoy despite his violent history and for neglecting urgent pleas from victims. She also highlighted systemic issues, such as unanswered domestic violence hotlines and 911 calls, which leave victims without critical assistance. The statement called for a comprehensive review of bail procedures in domestic violence cases, stricter enforcement of restraining orders, and enhanced victim protection measures. Briceño urged that this tragedy not be forgotten, stressing the need for systemic reform to prevent future failures.
