A desperate nationwide search is accelerating across Belize for a 30-year-old man with severe mental health conditions who has been missing for nearly two weeks, as his family pleads for public assistance to bring him home safely. Richard Phillip Cherrington, who recently moved from La Democracia to the coastal community of Mullins River, was last reported seen by his loved ones on May 21, 2026.
Cherrington lives with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, and requires ongoing medical care that he has not had consistent access to since his disappearance. His family emphasizes that every passing hour increases the risk to his health and safety, making even the smallest tip about his location critical to resolving the case.
In recent days, multiple credible sightings have placed Cherrington across central and western Belize: along the busy Coastal Highway, in the small communities of Hope Creek and Roaring Creek, and as recently as the previous Friday in the nation’s capital, Belmopan. Each time authorities or family members have attempted to intercept him, he has already moved on, as Cherrington remains constantly on the move and appears to be actively avoiding contact with other people.
Authorities and family have released a detailed description to help the public identify him: Cherrington stands approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, has a medium build and dark complexion, and keeps a low haircut. A distinguishing mark is a tattoo reading “Pamela” inked on his right arm. Even though Cherrington may avoid interaction, his family says they will not halt their search, and are now calling on ordinary residents across the country to help.
The public is urged not to dismiss any sighting of a person matching Cherrington’s description. Anyone who spots him is asked to immediately contact local Belizean police, or reach out directly to the family via phone or text at three dedicated hotlines: 608-9890, 668-7733, or 602-4452. As the search enters its third week, Cherrington’s family remains clinging to hope that a member of the public will spot him and help bring him back to safety and the care he needs.
This report is adapted from a transcript of an evening television newscast published online.