Island watchman fined nearly $2,000 for cannabis possession on Hicks Caye

Posted: Thursday, November 7, 2024. 2:02 pm CST.

 By Breaking Belize News Staff: A fisherman and watchman, 59-year-old Jose Antonio Rodriguez, is facing a fine of $1,685 after pleading guilty to possession of 495 grams of cannabis with intent to supply. Rodriguez, originally from Altamira Village, Corozal, claimed he found the marijuana parcel floating at sea near Hicks Caye, located 3-4 miles from Caye Caulker, and kept it for personal use.

Rodriguez appeared in Court #7 without legal representation and readily admitted to the charge. Members of the Anti-Narcotics Unit had discovered the cannabis stashed under his shirt during a search on October 31. While the Magistrate initially considered a $4,000 fine, she granted a reduced penalty for his early guilty plea, remorse, and personal use explanation.

Rodriguez must pay the fine by February 28, 2024, or face one year in prison if he defaults.

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