分类： law

In a landmark ruling, a Belize Defense Force (BDF) soldier and a police officer have been found guilty of obstructing justice in the 2021 shooting death of BDF soldier Jessie Escobar. The verdict was delivered on November 12, 2025, in the Magistrate’s Court. BDF Private Ramon Alberto Alcoser and Police Corporal Juan Carlos Moralez were convicted of perverting the course of justice by providing false statements about the events of September 5, 2021, in Santa Familia, where Escobar was fatally shot. The Senior Magistrate determined that their accounts were inconsistent with the evidence, despite their claims of trauma and pressure. Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, who led the prosecution, argued that the defendants deliberately misled investigators. The magistrate concurred, stating that their statements were fabricated and given while the events were still fresh. Both men were remanded to Belize Central Prison and are scheduled for sentencing on December 4. Defense attorney Marcel Cardona expressed shock at the verdict but respected the decision. Vidal emphasized the importance of the ruling, highlighting the need for accountability among law enforcement officers. The case underscores the critical role of evidence in ensuring justice, particularly in cases involving alleged misconduct by those in positions of authority.

In a recent development, social activist Jeremy Enriquez has announced his intention to challenge the Judicial and Legal Services Commission (JLSC) after it dismissed his complaint against Justice Tawanda Hondora. The complaint, filed earlier this year, alleged misconduct by Justice Hondora in an injunction case. Enriquez expressed frustration over the lack of transparency in the investigation process, stating that the JLSC failed to communicate the steps being taken or involve him in the proceedings. After months of waiting, Enriquez sought a judicial review, only to receive a letter from the JLSC stating that the complaint did not meet the threshold for further investigation. Surprised and dissatisfied with the outcome, Enriquez has vowed to appeal the decision in court, reigniting a legal battle that underscores broader concerns about accountability within the judicial system.

The high-profile fraud case involving developer Michael Feinstein and the contentious Stake Bank project has been postponed, marking another twist in a legal saga that has captivated Belize. Scheduled to commence in the High Court on October 29, 2025, the proceedings were abruptly delayed as Feinstein’s British legal team sought a stay to appeal a prior decision barring the submission of new evidence. Justice Susan Goonetilleke adjourned the case pending a ruling from the Court of Appeal on the matter.

The dispute traces back to April 2024, when Atlantic Bank Limited accused Feinstein and Stake Bank Enterprises of fraud, alleging that $62 million in financing for a cruise port development was misused. The bank claims Feinstein unlawfully transferred a 23.5-acre island extension to his personal name rather than the company’s. Outside the courtroom, Feinstein lashed out at his adversaries, labeling them “banksters” and accusing financial institutions and government officials of conspiring to seize control of the multimillion-dollar project.

Adding to the controversy, the Government of Belize recently moved to compulsorily acquire 23.4 acres of Stake Bank Island, a decision Feinstein’s group has denounced as unlawful and lacking public interest, particularly given the presence of other port facilities like the Port of Belize. This latest delay prolongs a legal battle that continues to raise questions about transparency, accountability, and the future of the Stake Bank development.