Security Guard Sentenced to 12 Years for Deadly Stabbing

Gilroy Howard Thomas, a 28-year-old former security guard, pleaded guilty to manslaughter yesterday in connection with the fatal stabbing of Emroy Elroy Tracey in March 2022. Thomas, who was jointly charged with Tyrique Swaso, accepted responsibility for his role in Tracey’s death.  Tracey, who was 26 years old at the time, was stabbed multiple times on March 5, 2022, at the corner of Iguana and Curassow Streets in Belize City. According to the facts of the case, Tracey was drinking with Swaso and Thomas when an altercation broke out between Swaso and Tracey. Thomas then joined the fight, and both he and Swaso pulled out knives, inflicting more than 15 stab wounds on Tracey. No motive for the stabbing was ever established.  Represented by attorney Leeroy Banner, Thomas entered into a plea agreement with the Crown. Justice Nigel Pilgrim sentenced Thomas to 12 years in prison, effective March 9, 2022.  Several aggravating and mitigating factors were considered by the judge including the use of a weapon and the prevalence of such crimes.  He also considered Thomas’ remorse, good character, lack of prior convictions, and potential for rehabilitation.  As for Thomas’ co-accused, Tyrique Swaso, he has pleaded not guilty to murder. His case has been adjourned until September 26, for a Case Management Conference. Swaso remains remanded at the Belize Central Prison. Crown Counsel Shanell Fernandez Peyrefitte prosecuted the case.