Delivery Supervisor Remanded for Allegedly Imprisoning and Assaulting Girlfriend and Child

Justin Michael Betson, a 46-year-old delivery and driver supervisor with Bowen & Bowen, appeared in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court on charges of unlawful imprisonment, wounding, and aggravated assault. Betson is accused of unlawfully detaining his girlfriend, Sharisa Jessica Oh, along with her 2-year-old daughter, for five days at their residence in Hattieville. During this time, it is alleged that Betson subjected Oh to physical abuse, including being punched, whipped with a broom, and stomped, resulting in multiple bruises and a swollen eye.  At the arraignment, Betson admitted to his actions but denied holding Oh against her will, claiming he had lost control temporarily and expressed regret. Despite his attempt to take responsibility and apologize, the sitting Magistrate denied him bail, citing the severity of the charges, the safety of the victim and her child, and the public interest in a case of this nature. Betson was remanded to the Belize Central Prison until January 6, 2025, and was advised he could seek bail through the High Court.  The incident allegedly began on October 26, 2024, after Betson returned home from a party, reportedly intoxicated and enraged. According to Oh’s statement to the police, Betson assaulted her, preventing her from leaving the house. She managed to escape only after he left for work on October 31, 2024, seeking refuge with a friend before reporting the incident to the authorities.