Security guard faces second arrest for discharging firearm in public

Posted: Wednesday, October 2, 2024. 12:01 pm CST.

By Breaking Belize News Staff: In a case reminiscent of double jeopardy, 35-year-old security guard Nathan Whyte has found himself back in court facing charges of discharging a firearm in public. Whyte, who works for Seaside Chateau Resort near the Haulover Bridge, was first charged in early September for the incident but saw the case dismissed. Now, he faces the same charge once again.

The incident in question occurred on September 5, 2024, at #43 Sarstoon Street, Belize City. According to the police report, Whyte discharged his licensed firearm in response to a confrontation involving his girlfriend, her sister, and her sister’s boyfriend. Whyte claims he fired a shot at the ground to stop the altercation, which he described as an attempt to protect his girlfriend from harm.

Attorney Norman Rodriguez, representing Whyte, argued that the case had already been dismissed once by the court. He criticized the authorities for what he described as malicious actions, claiming his client acted in defense. Rodriguez pointed out that Whyte had notified the police about the ongoing disturbance before firing his weapon and contended that the facts of the case did not justify the charge.

In court, the prosecutor recused himself, citing familiarity with Whyte, and no bail was granted. Whyte was remanded to Belize Central Prison until December 2, 2024, pending further disclosure from the prosecution. His attorney plans to apply for bail later this week, citing special circumstances for Whyte’s release.

Whyte, visibly emotional upon hearing he would be remanded again, remains in custody as his legal team continues to fight the case.

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Belize ~ We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages. Your content is delivered instantly to thousands of users in Belize and abroad! Contact us at mаrkеtіng@brеаkіngbеlіzеnеwѕ.соm or call us at 501-612-0315.