Caye Caulker Man Faces June Trial in Wife’s Murder Case

The second case concerns 44-year-old maintenance worker Juan Carlos Novelo of Caye Caulker, charged with the November 2023 murder of his wife, Leslie Margarita Verde. Appearing virtually for the defense was attorney Leroy Banner, while the Crown was again represented by Dennison. The prosecution disclosed reliance on a second expert report, prompting the court to request written grounds and cost estimates for additional expert evidence by February 27, and a Crown response by March 13. A typed post-mortem report was also ordered due to legibility issues.  Novelo’s trial has been set for June 29, and is expected to last between five and eleven days, partly due to expert testimony, the involvement of two minors, and potential language considerations. A further case management conference is scheduled for April 13.  Both accused men were remanded to the Belize Central Prison as proceedings continue.