Charges Dropped Against Belize Pastor, Released Drugs Arrest

Pastor Mark Anthony Humes, a resident of Burrell Boom Village and taxi operator, has been released after drug charges against him were withdrawn.  The pastor was charged for the possession of 1,137 grams of cocaine with intent to supply. This development comes after two nights spent in police custody, following his arrest alongside six fishermen from northern Belize.  Pastor Humes, who was initially detained on Tuesday, saw his charges dismissed this morning in the presence of his attorney, Lynden Jones. The pastor was visibly relieved as he exited the courtroom, greeted by his wife and family, who expressed their gratitude. His wife was overheard saying, “Thank you Lord,” as he emerged from the building.  While Pastor Humes refrained from making a public statement, his attorney provided some insight into the situation. 

The six fishermen, namely 31-year-old, Lerman Norman Leslie of Chunox Village, Corozal; 43-year-old, Freddy Estuardo Chavez of San Estevan, Orange Walk; plus Sarteneja residents, 44-year-old, Angel Aragon; 35-year-old, Marvin Teul; 24-year-old, Ronyer Alexander Cruz, and 38-year-old, Christian Merilyn White, all remain in custody at the Belize Central Prison. Of the six fishermen, the bail applications for Marvin Teul, Christian White, Angel Aragon and Freddy Chavez are being dealt with by Attorney David McKoy while Senior Counsel Simeon Sampson is handling the matter for Lerman Leslie and Ronyer Cruz.  The arrests of these men stem from a police operation on Tuesday in Orange Walk Town. Officers from the Mobile Interdiction Team (MIT) and Highway Interdiction Team (HIT) intercepted a gold Dodge Caravan driven by Pastor Humes. According to police reports, Humes was hired to transport the six fishermen from Belize City to Orange Walk, but the vehicle was stopped before reaching its destination.  The circumstances surrounding the initial arrest and the subsequent withdrawal of charges against Pastor Humes are still under scrutiny. The case continues for the six fishermen who remain in custody