Months after an initial internal probe cleared former Acting Chief Forest Officer John Pinelo of any misconduct, scrutiny into his alleged improper dealings with a private business figure has reignited in Belize’s public service sector.
While the first internal investigation turned up no evidence of wrongdoing on Pinelo’s part, the formal review process for the allegations against him is still ongoing. Currently, Pinelo continues to hold his position as Deputy Chief Forest Officer, his post unchanged amid the ongoing review.
Sustainable Development Minister Orlando Habet confirmed this week that the Chief Executive Officer of his ministry is currently conducting a thorough review of the compiled report on the allegations. Once this internal review is completed, the document will be passed along to the Ministry of the Public Service, the governing body that will determine the next steps for the case. That ministry will make a final call on whether the inquiry will close with no further action, or if additional disciplinary or investigative steps will be taken against Pinelo.
Habet reiterated Pinelo’s current standing in the department in comments to reporters, stating: “He’s still with the department. He’s still on his role as deputy chief forest officer, and that is where he is now. A report was given by him. The CEO is reviewing that, and they are sending that to the Minister of Public Service, and then they decide if it stays there, it goes further to, to the commissioner.”
Separately, the government has confirmed it will move forward with readvertising the vacant Chief Forest Officer position, a post that Pinelo previously held in an acting capacity. The process to fill the permanent role will proceed as the review of Pinelo’s case advances through the public service pipeline.
This report is adapted from a transcript of a televised evening newscast, with all statements rendered accurately per standard transcription protocols.