Attorney Oscar Selgado Awaits Sentencing for Plot to Kill Belize City Woman

In less than two weeks, convicted attorney Oscar Selgado will learn whether his punishment for plotting to kill a Belize City woman will include prison time. The 54-year-old is hoping for a non-custodial sentence, but will the court grant him that luxury? As we’ve reported, in March, Selgado was found guilty of abetment to commit murder but is yet to be sentenced. Today, he returned to the Belize City High Court for a sentencing hearing, where his attorney, Author Saldivar, spent one hour and 45 minutes making submissions to the court on why Selgado should be spared prison time. Saldivar focused on Selgado’s health conditions, his contribution to society, and his inability to work following his release from prison if given a custodial sentence. But the crown, represented by the DPP, is calling for the court to issue the maximum punishment on Selgado. However, according to Saldivar, a custodial sentence may be not only detrimental to Selgado’s health but too severe given there was no loss of life.

Saldivar noted that while he hopes his client is not given a custodial sentence, he is not asking for Selgado to be let off the hook due to his health conditions, which include being diabetic and suffering from hypertension. 

The presiding Justice is expected to sentence Selgado on June 14.