Judge Reserves Verdict in Rupert Codd Rape Trial Until September

The rape trial of Belize City resident Rupert Codd began and concluded in a single day before Justice Derick Sylvester in the High Court. A verdict is expected on September 29.  Codd is accused of raping a woman near the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in the early hours of April 2, 2023. He has denied the allegation.  The complainant, who was 31 at the time of the alleged incident, testified in camera. She told the court that she was walking to the KHMH for medical assistance at around four o’clock that morning when a man began following her.  She alleged that the man, whom she later identified as Codd, threatened her with a knife, forced her onto a picnic table near the hospital and raped her. The prosecution, represented by Crown Counsel from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, presented evidence from 11 witnesses. Three witnesses, including the complainant, the arresting officer and a forensic analyst, testified in court. Statements from the remaining witnesses were admitted into evidence by agreement between the prosecution and defence.  Codd, represented by attorney Michael Peyrefitte, gave sworn testimony in his defence. He claimed that the woman had taken his wallet and cellular phone and that he restrained her on the picnic table while attempting to recover the items. Codd denied having sexual intercourse with the complainant and maintained that no rape occurred.  Justice Sylvester has directed both sides to file their written closing submissions by July 31. Oral submissions are scheduled to be heard in open court on September 29, after which the judge is expected to deliver his decision on whether Codd is guilty or not guilty.  Codd remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, he could face a substantial prison sentence under Belize’s laws.