Construction Worker Remanded After Failing to Meet Bail Conditions

Thirty-seven-year-old Lionel Palacio is spending the night on remand at the Belize Central Prison after being unable to post bail following his arraignment on a charge of common assault. Palacio, an Ordonez Street construction worker, appeared unrepresented before a Senior Magistrate yesterday where he was read a single charge of common assault. The allegation is that Palacio assaulted Nicole Bermudez.  When the charge was read, Palacio pleaded not guilty. Although he attempted to give an explanation, the Senior Magistrate advised him that no explanation was required at that stage since he had entered a not-guilty plea.  There was no objection from the prosecution to bail being granted, and the court subsequently offered bail in the sum of $300 with one surety of the same amount. As part of the bail conditions, Palacio was ordered not to interfere with the virtual complainant or any members of her family, nor with any other prosecution witnesses. He was also instructed to remain at least 100 feet away from the virtual complainant, with the warning that his bail could be revoked if he breached any of those conditions.  However, by the end of the day, Palacio was unable to secure his release. Court officials indicated that he also owed $405.00 in outstanding court fines, which had to be settled before bail could be posted. Unable to pay the outstanding amount, Palacio was remanded to the Belize Central Prison, where he remains until he is able to meet the bail requirements.  Palacio’s next court appearance is scheduled for February 26.