Belize City Businessman Arraigned on Sexual Assault Charge

A late-evening arraignment was held yesterday for 65-year-old businessman Alfonso Mario Ayuso, who is accused of sexually assaulting a 21-year-old college student inside his grocery store in the Kings Park area of Belize City.  Ayuso appeared before Magistrate Mannon Dennison at the Belize City Magistrate’s Court, where he was read a single charge of sexual assault. He was represented by attorney Andrew Bennett and pleaded not guilty to the allegation. The charge relates to an incident said to have occurred on October 6, 2025. According to the allegation, Ayuso intentionally touched the right buttocks of the complainant in a sexual manner and without her consent while she was inside the grocery store making a purchase.  There was no objection to bail; however, the prosecution requested that strict conditions be imposed. Magistrate Dennison granted bail in the sum of $3,500 with one surety of the same amount, which Ayuso was able to meet.  As part of his bail conditions, Ayuso is prohibited from contacting the virtual complainant or any prosecution witnesses, must remain at least 100 feet away from the complainant, and is required to report to Precinct Three Police Station on Queen Street every Friday between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., beginning January 16.  Ayuso is due to return to court on March 12, when disclosure is expected to be served.  In brief facts outlined to police, the complainant stated that she entered the grocery store to buy noodles and engaged in a brief conversation with Ayuso, during which he mentioned that business was doing poorly. She alleges that shortly thereafter, he touched her inappropriately, leaving her feeling annoyed and uncomfortable.  Court records further indicate that in 2018, Ayuso was convicted and sentenced to six months imprisonment for a similar offence involving a minor. In that case, the complainant reported that Ayuso kissed her on the cheeks and touched her inappropriately.  The matter remains before the court.