Ellis “Juice” Meighan Arraigned on Murder Charge

Ellis Gilbert Meighan, 33, was today arraigned at the Belize City Magistrate’s Court on four indictable offenses: murder, attempted murder, use of deadly means of harm, and dangerous harm.

The charges stem from the April 2024 shooting in Placencia that left Roy Lee Burgess dead and American national Maia James injured but alive.

Brought to court under heavy police security, Meighan appeared unrepresented. Due to the seriousness of the charges, no plea was taken and bail was denied. He was remanded to the Belize Central Prison until November 6, 2025.

Authorities say key witness Maia James is expected to return to Belize to testify.

GI3 police officers escorted Meighan to court under a special operation that briefly halted traffic on Coney Drive. Officers secured the perimeter and dispersed known figures who had gathered near the compound before Meighan was rushed into a waiting police mobile.

As he was led out, Meighan exchanged words with his sister, who called him by his nickname. “Love you too,” he told her, before asking, “Weh mama deh?” Moments later, he was placed into the vehicle and whisked away under escort.

Despite today’s arraignment, no identification parade has been conducted. Sources tell us that Maia James, the American eyewitness, was flown into Belize to participate but was later taken back abroad for her safety. Authorities say she will return to testify when required.

Police also disclosed that Meighan has refused to participate in an identification parade.

Ellis Meighan has long been a controversial figure in Belize City’s underworld. He is the brother of the late Tyrone Meighan, who was gunned down earlier this year in the Lake View area. His name has surfaced repeatedly in police investigations, though until now he had evaded prosecution on major charges.