Police Blunder Lets Alleged Gang Member Go

Imagine walking into court, admitting you’re part of a gang, and then walking out a free man. That’s exactly what happened to thirty-three-year-old Deandre McKoy on Monday in Belize City. McKoy, who appeared without a lawyer, pleaded guilty to being a member of the Baka Land Crips. Normally, that charge means jail time, not a fine. But the case fell apart because the police report didn’t include the evidence needed to back up the charge. The magistrate couldn’t accept McKoy’s guilty plea without those details, so the charge was struck out. McKoy, an electrician and employee with the Leadership Intervention Unit, left court a free man. But this isn’t his first run-in with the law, he’s faced serious charges before, including murder and attempted murder. So, was this a legal loophole or a major oversight?