La Democracia Man Remanded for Attempted Murder

A La Democracia resident, 21-year-old, Paul Smith Jr. is on remand at Belize Central Prison after being accused and charged with the attempted murder of Tyrone Godoy. The incident occurred last Sunday, June 8. Smith appeared today before Magistrate Ludlow Black, where he was read the charges of attempted murder, use of deadly means of harm, and grievous harm upon Godoy. Due to the nature of the offenses, no bail was offered, and no plea was taken. Smith was remanded until August 6. Godoy was allegedly chopped in the hand by Smith following an altercation and required hospitalization. The motive for the incident is currently unknown. Smith is known to the authorities. Just two weeks ago, on May 28, he was granted bail after being arraigned for escaping lawful custody in connection with stolen items from a home in La Democracia on May 25. He also walked free from a murder charge on November 13, 2024, when a nolle prosequi was entered in the case of 19-year-old, Tyreak Dwight August, who was gunned down in La Democracia on April 7, 2022.