American Appeals for Pardon in Belize, Citing False News Conviction

American national, 39-year-old Joseph Camp, is appealing to Governor General, Her Excellency Dame Froyla Tzalam, to pardon him from a conviction of spreading false news. On Sunday, April 21, Camp wrote to the Governor General pleading his case and seeking pardon under Section 52 of Belize’s Constitution. He spoke to our newsroom today from an undisclosed location, saying that he is in fear of the Belize Police Department. Camp explained that, after doing the research, he learned of the Governor General’s ability to issue pardons, and believes he is eligible for one given the circumstances.

Camp had pleaded guilty to the charge and paid a fine of six hundred dollars. He noted that the Constitution also provides recourse if a pardon is denied, and he is prepared to pursue every option available to him. 

Camp was charged in relation to a social media post he made regarding the shooting of eighteen-year-old Jaylon Jones. Police had pursued Jones in relation to an investigation and he was shot in the ankle on the night of April 10. During a live stream at the scene, Camp made certain remarks about the police department which Commissioner of Police Chester Williams says were false. He was charged on April 11.