7 News Belize

Policeman Accused of Driving Getaway Car in Lawless Armed Robbery
posted (February 24, 2009)

A police officer was allegedly driving the getaway car when a group of men pulled off a daring early morning robbery on Monday in downtown Belize City. The accused cop is 27 year old Jeremy Moore – a resident of Ladyville. Constable Moore along with 21 year old fisherman Albert Clother and 32 year old labourer Shane Budran were today charged in court with robbery. The trio is accused of robbing Indian businessman 53 year old Madhu Babani. Babani told police that around 2:10 am on Monday – he was outside his home on Albert Street when three men in a car pulled up. One was armed and he pointed the gun at Babani while his accomplice searched the businessman’s pocket.

They found and fled with four thousand five hundred U.S. dollars, 50 Belize dollars, and a gold chain. But a police mobile was in the area and they set chase down Albert Street. The pursuit ended on Tigris Street when the criminals’ car crashed. Police Press Officer Clemente Palacio says that when the officers got to the car – they found that one of their own was behind the wheels.

Clemente Palacio, Police Press Officer
“This businessman was coming out of his business place when he was accosted by three men and they robbed him of cash and jewellery and they got away. Police were in the area at that time and they responded and a vehicular chase ensued. And what happened was that these persons were found.”

Jacqueline Godwin,
When the police were finally able to intercept this white car, the getaway vehicle, were the police surprised that the driver turned out to be police constable Jeremy Moore?

Clemente Palacio,
“Well in that regard like every other family, they were surprised but that turned out to be the reality.”

Jacqueline Godwin,
I understand that in this incident, PC Moore in his defense is claiming that he was forced by these three perpetrators, actually he is saying he was kidnapped, taken to this location and then forced to drive the robbers away from the area.

Clemente Palacio,
“I am not in a position at this time to comment on the merits or the demerits of his case. I think that is going to be played before the court. I have mentioned to you what the charges are and we will go from there.”

Jacqueline Godwin,
What role did PC Moore play in his hold-up and robbery?

Clemente Palacio,
“I think I’ll go straight to what he will be charged with. He will be charged with robbery and abetment so that covers the entire incident.”

Jacqueline Godwin,
But do the police have any evidence in hand that will link all three perpetrators to this crime including PC Moore?

Clemente Palacio,
“I think they have and all will be taken to court.”

Jacqueline Godwin,
While sources tell 7News that PC Moore in his defense is claiming that he was kidnapped and actually forced him into this robbery that went down, do the police have any evidence to suggest otherwise?

Clemente Palacio,
“Again I can’t comment on what are your sources. That will be speculation on my part. This matter is going before the court, he has been charged. I will refuse to engage in any discussion that will actually prejudice this case. This is before the courts. The public is assured as the Commissioner has always stated that whenever policemen do wrong, they will face the full force of the law. That is what has happened in this case and the pubic is assured that that is the official policy of the Police Department.”

Bail was denied to all three men who appeared undefended. PC Moore has sought the services of attorney Dickie Bradley to apply for bail at the Supreme Court. Information to 7News is that police are searching for a fourth suspect who allegedly managed to get away with the stolen loot. PC Jeremy Moore has been with the Police Department for 7 years. He was attached to the patrol branch in Belize City. Along with the criminal charges – Moore has been placed on interdiction and on half pay pending the outcome of the criminal trial. He will also face internal disciplinary charges.

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