Brandon Gillett Cleared After Court Finds No Proof of Firearm Alteration

Municipal Court Bailiff Brandon Vaughan Gillett is a free man tonight after months of legal battles and time spent behind bars over charges that he altered a licensed firearm. Charges were dismissed earlier today at the Belize City Magistrate’s Court after the prosecution announced amendments to the charge sheet, reducing the initial five charges of altering a firearm to just one. However, that single remaining charge was also dismissed after the court found there was no evidence to prove Gillett had made any illegal modifications. The Prosecution clarified that while Gillett had added various accessories, such as an OLIGHT flashlight, pistol grip, fore grip, and sights, to his legally licensed firearm, these additions did not alter the weapon in a way that met the legal definition under the Firearms Act. The prosecution explained that ‘altering’ refers to substantial modifications like changing a firearm’s caliber or removing its serial number, none of which occurred in Gillett’s case. Attorney Monica Stuart of Legal Aid, who appeared in substitution for Gillett’s main attorney, agreed with the court’s interpretation. The Senior Magistrate subsequently dismissed the charge, clearing Gillett of all accusations. The 39 year old Gillett’s ordeal began in December 2023, when he was charged with five counts of altering a firearm without the written permission of the Firearms and Ammunition Control Board.  He was initially arraigned on December 22, 2024 and remained after changing his plea from guilty to not guilty upon learning he could face a one-year prison sentence. He later secured bail from the High Court and was granted release on December 29, 2024. His case saw multiple adjournments and court transfers, including time before the Chief Magistrate’s Court, where it was eventually reassigned due to administrative changes. The charges stemmed from a December 21 incident in Los Lagos Village, Ladyville, where police, responding to a report of Gillett brandishing an AK-style firearm at a family funeral, conducted a search of his home. There, they found his licensed Springfield firearm with added components, which led to the controversial charges. Gillett, who had maintained his innocence, was visibly relieved as he exited court today. He commented to the court reporter, quote, “They said I altered the firearm, but I didn’t. There was no proof. I’m just glad this is over”.