Investigation Continues: Well-Known Attorney Accused of Rape Yet to Be Charged

Up to news time tonight, the accused rapist, who has been described as a well-known attorney is yet to be charged.  Love News understands that the investigators submitted additional evidence to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) earlier today, and that she will have to review them before making a decision on whether the accused will face charges.  The backdrop to this story has to do with two women who reported that they met the attorney last Thursday in a Belize City nightclub.  They reportedly went to the man’s house, had some drinks, and woke up naked the following morning.  Meanwhile, the Ministry of Human Development has cited concerns over these opinions as many of them are against the alleged victims.  In a release issued today, the ministry has called on the relevant authorities to leave no stones unturned in this investigation, and has also called on media blogs and news outlets to desist from victim-blaming or speculation.  The release comes shortly after a video was released by Hot Off the Press news blog, owned by Attorney Orson Elrington.  The video’s caption seeks to discredit the two complainants, and to contradict the statements they have given to the investigators.  The video is purportedly footage recorded inside the Thirsty Thursday establishment where the women and the accused attorney were socializing.  The ministry concluded its release, saying, quote, “This matter must NOT be tried in the court of public opinion, and we discourage in the strongest terms any victim blaming or speculation.  We must also take this opportunity to remind our women and girls, men and boys, and all interested parties to exercise care and caution while consuming alcohol and recreating. There are persons who, for their nefarious purposes, will drug individuals so as to incapacitate them. Let us take all steps necessary to protect all persons and, especially minors, from such criminal behavior.  Our ministry has reached out and will be providing the necessary support and counseling to the victims.”  End of quote.