Taxi Driver Fined for Threatening Police Officer in Belize City

A 60-year-old Belize City taxi operator has been convicted of using threatening words and boisterous behavior towards a police officer. Alvaro Avilez, of Ebony Street, pleaded guilty to the charges. He was fined $210, which he must pay by August 8, or face one month in prison for each offense. Avilez also paid an outstanding court debt of $505 before being released today. Police Constable Albert Martinez reported that on Friday, July 25, he intercepted Avilez on Mahogany Street because a report had been made against him by a minor. Martinez stated that Avilez became boisterous and threatened to kill him. Martinez said he felt fearful and arrested Avilez, taking him to the Raccoon Street Police Station. Avilez claimed in court that after his previous case concluded, the same officer informed him he was wanted, then punched and handcuffed him. He stated the officer “knocked him out” upon entering the police station, which is why he used the words.