Danny Mason kidnapping trial heads toward conclusion following no-case submission

Posted: Sunday, July 28, 2024. 2:17 pm CST.

By Aaron Humes: Defense counsel for one of two men accused of kidnapping, Ryan Rhaburn, Senior Counsel Simeon Sampson, on Friday said that the trial against his client and co-accused William “Danny” Mason would proceed, and his client would take the stand on Monday morning.

The trial judge’s ruling on this interim matter sets the stage for the defense to present its case, with both Mason and Rhaburn expected to testify.

Mason and Rhaburn are before High Court Justice Francis Cumberbatch in Belmopan, being tried for the alleged kidnapping of businessman Lloyd Thiessen and his wife, Rosie. A business dispute prompted the alleged abduction, as the couple had reportedly given Mason a significant sum of money for the importation of corn, which was never delivered. When confronted by the couple, Mason is alleged to have removed them to his ranch near Mile 31 along the George Price Highway in May 2016, also the site of the killing of pastor Llewelyn Lucas.

After the prosecution, led by Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl Lynn Vidal, closed its case on Wednesday, the defense argued a no-case submission, claiming that the prosecution had not provided sufficient evidence against the accused. Justice Cumberbatch ruled that there was indeed a case to answer, denying the no-case submission and ordering the trial to continue.

Mason also faces an additional charge of blackmail for allegedly demanding weekly payments from Lloyd Thiessen for protection. The trial is taking place before a jury, and amid heightened public interest, the court has taken measures to ensure that the proceedings are conducted privately, with no media allowed inside.

As the trial progresses, the public eagerly awaits the outcome of this high-profile case, with a verdict expected next week.

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