Last night, we told you that investigators ruled that the fire at the Youth Hostel was arson. Well tonight, 2 girls and 1 young woman, all of whom were housed in the dormitory which burnt down, have been criminally charged for arson. The young woman, 18 year-old Erlene Baizar, is on remand tonight at the Belize Central Prison.
Baizar, and 2 female minors, ages 12 and 13, were arraigned today before the newly appointed Magistrate Ladonna John on the single charge of arson, and because it is an indictable offence, no plea was taken. The police prosecutor objected vigorously to bail being granted, but the Magistrate granted the 2 minors bail. In Baizar's case, the Magistrate remanded her until April 7, during which time an assessment of her mental health will be done.
The other 2 minors were offered bail of a thousand dollars, but only the 13 year-old was able to meet bail, since her family was present at the arraignment. That child was allowed to go home in the care of her parents after she posted bail. The 12 year old was remanded to a youth holding facility.
As we reported, the fire happened on Tuesday afternoon, at around 3:00, and, according to the police, these 3 females - all of whom were staying at the hostel - worked together and burnt down the female dormitory by lighting a mattress on fire. They caused approximately 280 thousand dollars in damages because of this fire.
Baizar, who has been living at the Hostel half her life - since the age of 9, is believed to be the ringleader. Her mother was allowed to address the court during her arraignment, and she said that the police shouldn't have charged her because she is mentally unstable, and that she was placed in the institution due to family issues.
The case goes back to court for an adjourned date of May 15.
Email
Print