A Belize City fisherman is serving a three-year sentence on a charge of burglary after being unable to pay half of the fine initially imposed on him. 46-year-old Iyon Staine of Aloe Vera Street appeared before Magistrate Stephanie Gillett before whom the charge was read. It is reported that on Friday, October 9, 2020, between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., he trespassed into the Flamboyant Street home of Egberto Garcia from where he stole a weed whacker and a flat screen television to a value of $1,319. None of the stolen items were ever recovered because as Staine puts it, he sold the items to pay his rent and provide food for his family. He also explained that Garcia, who used to be his boss, had owed him $440 for works, which he had completed and had refused to pay him.
This reason is no excuse for his actions, however, and he begged the court for leniency. He was fined $3,000 plus a $5 cost of court since he had no prior convictions for burglary. Staine was informed that at least half of his fine had to be paid forthwith. He was unable to do so and it was also noted that he was in debt to the court north of another $3,000 on two separate convictions, which was to have been paid by August 2020. Given these realities, a warrant was prepared for him to serve three years in prison in default of these fines.
