ComPol Rosado Urges Against Online Content Inciting Violence

Over the weekend, the Office of the Commissioner of Police issued a strong reminder to the public: think twice before hitting ‘share.’ The release urged Belizeans to act responsibly when posting or forwarding content online, especially anything that could incite violence or threaten public safety. Today, we caught up with Commissioner Rosado to get his take on that message, and to ask about something else that’s stirring conversation. Patrick Jones, the man behind that controversial live video, says he’s coming home. So, what does the Commissioner have to say about that?

 

Dr. Richard Rosado, Commissioner of Police

“We recognize that promoting, engaging or distributing provocative content that insights violence, actually provide fuel for the violence. As individuals and organizations we most be responsible about what we share to the media. We all share a collective responsibility to break the cycle of violence.”

 

Reporter

“And also Mr. Jones has said he is returning home.”

 

Dr. Richard Rosado

“Well we would welcome him, because we have several matters that we are waiting for him to return and we are waiting for him and we will welcome him back for Belize.”

 

Reporter

“He did say that he was wanted for murder, can you confirm.”

 

Dr. Richard Rosado

“He is wanted for questioning. I do believe that his reckless behavior led to what transpired over the weekend.”

 

Reporter

“Can Mr. Jones video be something you can characterize as inciting fear or instilling fear to be charged under the cybercrime laws?”

 

Dr. Richard Rosado

“His act is reckless, criminal, and has fueled the violence transpired over the weekend.”

 

Reporter

“What are you doing to contain retaliatory measures, this woman had nephews from other gangs. How do you stop that retaliation?”

 

Dr. Richard Rosado

“We are monitoring the situation on the ground. We have increased our special branch officers to collect intelligence. We are conducting targeted operations to break the cycle and prevent retaliation.”