A Belize City police corporal has been removed from active duty following the launch of an official misconduct investigation ordered by Police Commissioner Dr. Richard Rosado. Corporal Kenrick Bol received formal notification on February 13, 2026, that he would be suspended with full pay pending examination of multiple disciplinary breach allegations within the department.
The Standards and Accountability Branch issued the suspension letter, which was formally endorsed by Deputy Commissioner Bart Jones. The document explicitly invokes provisions granting the Commissioner authority to relieve officers deemed negligent or unfit for regular duties. This administrative action represents the department’s intensified drive toward enhanced accountability measures among personnel.
Simultaneously, Corporal Bol’s case has ignited substantial public discourse regarding religious expression and constitutional rights. The officer, who identifies as Rastafarian, has refused departmental orders to cut his dreadlocks, citing protection under religious freedom principles. Commissioner Rosado confirmed the matter has been forwarded to the Attorney General’s Ministry for legal guidance regarding policy compliance.
Legal representative Leslie Mendez has initiated formal proceedings against the police department, submitting a pre-action letter challenging the hair policy’s constitutionality. Mendez further contends that Bol’s exclusion from the Police Association Executive lacks legal foundation. The attorney has formally requested detailed justification for the suspension and awaits official response from authorities.
The developing situation highlights the complex intersection of institutional regulations, individual religious rights, and police accountability in Belize’s law enforcement system.
