Investigation Finds No Independent Evidence Against Novelo

Investigators found that several employees raised concerns about Belmopan City Council employee Efrain Novelo, but no eyewitness, physical or electronic evidence independently supported the main allegation of unwanted physical contact. According to the report, Novelo denied all allegations and maintained that the complaints were retaliatory and linked to his involvement in disciplinary actions within the Traffic Department. Investigators found no independent evidence to support claims that the complaints were coordinated, fabricated, or motivated by extortion, despite Novelo’s assertions. In conclusion, the investigative team determined that the matter warrants formal administrative determination, protective measures for employees, and a review of how previous complaints were handled by management. The Belmopan City Council, in a press release issued Thursday, said the investigation was completed by a committee comprising representatives of its Human Resources Department, the Christian Workers Union, and the Ministry of Human Development in accordance with Belize’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Act. The Council further stated that allegations of this nature are addressed through a fair, impartial, confidential and evidence-based process and stressed that there was never any instructions to dismiss, minimize, ignore, suppress, or otherwise disregard the complaint. The Council has also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a professional and respectful workplace based on fairness, accountability, transparency, and due process, while News Five’s attempts to obtain comment from Novelo were unsuccessful.

 

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