Belize City Fisherman Remanded Over Alleged Domestic Dispute

A thirty-two-year-old Belize City fisherman has been remanded to prison after being charged in connection with an alleged domestic dispute involving the mother of his children.  Ramzee Roman Palma appeared unrepresented in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court, where he was charged with burglary with intent to cause bodily harm and one count of harm. He pleaded not guilty and told the court that the allegations against him were false. According to police allegations, Palma entered the woman’s home on New Road without her permission during the early hours of Friday, August 14. The woman reported that an argument followed and that Palma allegedly slapped her, causing pain and swelling to her face.  Police say officers observed swelling and issued her with medico-legal forms. Palma was later detained and charged. The prosecution objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the burglary charge and the domestic nature of the allegations. Palma appealed to the court for his release, saying that he has three children at home and that his imprisonment would affect his family.  The magistrate upheld the prosecution’s objection and denied bail at this stage. Palma was remanded to the Belize Central Prison until October 13. He was informed that he may apply to the High Court for bail.