Kidnapping trial looms as plea deal fails for two Belizean men

Published by [email protected] at December 12, 2024

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Posted: Thursday, December 12, 2024. 5:35 pm CST.

By Breaking Belize News Staff: A kidnapping and wounding case involving two Belizean men charged in connection with the 2021 assault of a 15-year-old minor will proceed to trial after plea discussions with the Crown fell apart. Oliver Sutherland, 33, and Elvin Smith, 24, had hoped to plead guilty to wounding, but the Crown refused to accept the lesser plea, insisting on a guilty plea for kidnapping.

The duo, charged with kidnapping, wounding, and harm, are accused of abducting and injuring the minor on March 12, 2021. Their trial is now set for January 20, 2025, following failed negotiations between their attorney, Leeroy Banner, and Crown Counsel Glenford Dennison.

The men had hoped a guilty plea to wounding would lead to a time-served sentence, given their significant time in remand. However, the Crown firmly rejected the proposal. Justice Derick Sylvester, presiding over the case, adjourned it for trial after the plea discussion reached an impasse.

Following the adjournment, Attorney Banner successfully argued for bail for Smith, citing his extended remand of nearly four years. Justice Sylvester granted Smith bail of $10,000 with two $5,000 sureties, with conditions that include weekly reporting to the Queen Street Police Station and compliance with all court dates.

However, Sutherland was denied bail due to previous violations of his High Court bail conditions. The judge advised Sutherland that he could file a written application for bail at a later date.

If convicted of kidnapping, the men face potential sentences ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment, though time served on remand could reduce their penalties. Smith has been in custody for three years and ten months, while Sutherland has served over a year in remand.

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