Police Constable Wagner Charged for Putting Gun in Man’s Mouth
A viral video showing a police officer allegedly forcing a firearm into a resident’s mouth has now triggered an unusual courtroom debate. Thirty-year-old Police Constable Michael Anthony Wagner was arraigned in Belize City today on one count of aggravated assault with a firearm against Azzaine Guerra. His attorney, Arthur Saldivar, argued that the legislation restricting bail was designed to tackle armed gangs and should not apply to an on-duty officer legally carrying a service weapon. But the prosecution maintained that the firearm charge left the court with no authority to release Wagner. The magistrate agreed, denying bail and remanding the officer to the Belize Central Prison until December twenty-ninth.
Stacy Smith
ASP Stacy Smith, Staff Officer
“As a consequence of a report made by a resident of San Pedro Town, police have formally arrested and charged thirty-year-old Michael Wagner, a Belizean police constable, for the crime of aggravated assault.”
Reporter
In terms of internal disciplinary charges?
ASP Stacy Smith
“Disciplinary proceedings are underway as well. As I indicated to Mr. Vasquez the last time we spoke, I know a number of operational units are operating in San Pedro, including that which Mr. Wagner is posted to, which is GI3. The exact purpose for his presence on that street on that day has not been made known to me. However, as I indicated then, the investigation will disclose that.”
Shane Williams
“Has Mister Wagner made any counter claim?”
ASP Stacy Smith
“Not to my knowledge. It’s an ongoing investigation. I don’t know if he has, observed his right to remain silent. But it’s a matter that is now before the court given that he has been charged.”
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