Trial of Police Exhibit Keeper in Cannabis Gummies Case Delayed to 2027

The trial of a Belize Police Department exhibit keeper accused of improperly disposing of cannabis-infused gummies has been postponed until March 2027. The case against Bustillos was expected to begin in the High Court today, but Justice Nigel Pilgrim’s calendar is reportedly fully booked for the remainder of 2026.  Bustillos appeared in court this morning alongside his attorney, Nazira Myles-Espat. The prosecution is expected to call more than 20 witnesses.  Bustillos is charged with wilful oppression. Prosecutors allege that on April 21, 2023, while serving as an exhibit keeper, he exceeded his authority by disposing of cannabis-infused candies without proper authorization. The gummies, which had reportedly been labelled as found property, later ended up in public circulation and were consumed by several adults and children. Fourteen people in Belize City reportedly became ill.  Bustillos was initially charged with 10 counts of negligent harm, but those charges were discontinued in October 2023. He was subsequently charged with wilful oppression.  In December 2025, Bustillos sought a sentencing indication as he considered pleading guilty. However, after the court indicated that a guilty plea could result in a one-year prison sentence, he rejected the indication and elected to proceed to trial. Bustillos remains interdicted from duty and is out on bail.