Lords Bank Man Remanded on Sexual Assault Charges Involving Child

A resident of the Lords Bank area has been remanded to the Belize Central Prison after being charged with two counts of sexual assault involving a ten-year-old girl.  Manuel de Jesus Flores appeared before a senior magistrate in Belize City on yesterday where the charges were formally read to him. The allegations are that on July 18, Flores intentionally and unlawfully touched the child in a sexual manner without her consent. Prosecutors allege that the incidents occurred shortly after midnight.  Flores was represented by attorney Sharon Pitts-Robateau, who applied for bail on his behalf. She reminded the court that the charges remain allegations and that Flores is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. She also submitted that he is gainfully employed as a mason and could be required to follow conditions designed to ensure his return to court.  Police Prosecutor Sergeant Ayala opposed bail, citing the child’s age, the seriousness and prevalence of the alleged offences and concerns that Flores could interfere with the complainant or the ongoing police investigation. The prosecutor also argued that there was a risk of further offending if bail was granted.  After considering submissions from both sides, the senior magistrate denied bail at this stage and remanded Flores to prison.  He is scheduled to return to court on September 17.