Tag:
commissioner of police
Police News
Despite ComPol’s statement, there is no warrant for police brutality victim Ryan Melendez
Island resident Ryan Melendez, who was pistol-whipped by Sergeant Devon Makin weeks ago, was at the San Pedro Police Station on Monday, July 15th, accompanied by his attorney David McKoy, following reports that the police wanted him. Melendez was informed that he was not wanted by the police and walked out of the station without charge. McKoy said the family plans to sue the Belize Police Department, particularly the Commissioner of Police, for defamation.
Crime & Violence
San Pedro Police staying vigilant following State of Emergency declared on the mainland
Since March 26th, a state of emergency (SOE) has been implemented in some regions of southside Belize City, Hattieville Village, and Roaring Creek Village in the Cayo District. The motive behind this was to prevent any retaliation following three murders, one of which was a police officer. The police officers and Belize Defence Force soldiers have been targeting possible gang members in these areas. Therefore, many of them have fled to other parts of the country, including San Pedro Town. In the past week, the San Pedro Police Formation detained and removed several of these suspected gang members from the island.
Community and Society
Safety Measures for Easter Holiday
As the Easter holiday approaches, the Belize Police Department reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the safety of all road users across the country. With an anticipated increase in traffic during this festive period, the police department's aim is to increase road safety across the country, which is aimed at preventing accidents and promoting responsible driving behaviours.
Crime & Violence
Michael Brown turns himself over to police after being named a suspect in San Pedrito mass shooting
On Tuesday, October 24th, Michael Brown, named as one of the two suspects in the deadly mass shooting in the San Pedrito area, turned himself over to the San Pedro Police.
Police News
Police Department issues restrictions on the use of firearms for advertising/posting online
The Belize Police Department has issued a memo restricting the use of firearms for advertising and/or making posts on social media. The official note, dated May 30th, was addressed to gun dealers, and expressed concerns about how firearms are used to attract sale. The Belize Police Department set out a stern warning, highlighting that if such behavior continues, it can lead to an arrest and the revocation of licenses.
Police News
Police release Christian Espat after questioning over the murder of Mirza Morales
Christian Espat was released without charges on Wednesday, May 31st, after being in police custody as the main suspect in the murder investigation of his ex-partner Mirza Morales. Espat turned himself over to the San Pedro Police in the company of his attorney and family members on Tuesday, May 30th.
Crime & Violence
Investigation ongoing in the murder of Mirza Morales; believed to have ties to the 2019 San Pedro Double Murder
Former San Pedro resident, 31-year-old Mirza Morales, was murdered at her business establishment, La Casona Restaurant and Bar, at El Progresso (Seven Miles) in the Cayo District over the weekend. According to police reports, the incident seems to have been a targeted attack, as no signs of a robbery were observed. Before relocating from San Pedro Town, Morales was the partner of tour guide Mario Graniel who, along with American tourist Dr. Gary Swank, was shot dead during a fly-fishing trip.
Police News
Cops removed from San Pedro for misconduct
Two Corporals attached to the San Pedro Police Formation were removed from the island after being accused of misconduct. The Commissioner of Police (ComPol), Chester Williams, confirmed their removal and said it was to maintain good administration in San Pedro.
ComPol added that they aim for the San Pedro Police Station to run in a manner conducive for all working there or visiting the police station to feel comfortable.
