Posted: Saturday, December 21, 2024. 9:09 am CST.
By Breaking Belize News Staff: The trial of Dr. Desmond Arzu, a 40-year-old radiologist accused of sexually assaulting a female patient during an ultrasound in March 2023, was adjourned on Friday after a delay in proceedings. The continuation of the trial was postponed due to the absence of the crown, with Senior Magistrate’s Court #2 scheduling the next hearing for Tuesday, January 2, 2025.
Dr. Arzu, who was charged with sexual assault on May 12, 2023, appeared in court today accompanied by his attorneys Bryan Neal and Arthur Saldivar. The prosecution, represented by Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl Lynn-Vidal, was unable to attend due to another matter in the High Court. As a result, the trial was briefly stand down before being adjourned.
Attorney Saldivar raised concerns regarding the virtual cross-examination of the complainant, who had previously testified in full. While the victim had been expected to appear virtually for cross-examination today, Saldivar objected to the format and insisted she should appear in person. The Magistrate indicated this matter would be addressed during the trial’s continuation.
The case, transferred from Dangriga Magistrate’s Court to Belize City, centers on an incident that allegedly occurred on March 26, 2023. The victim, in her early 20s, claims Dr. Arzu sexually assaulted her during an abdominal ultrasound, which was her first such examination. She reported that after initially performing the procedure, Dr. Arzu allegedly touched her inappropriately and violated her during the exam.
Dr. Arzu, who denies the allegations, is currently out on bail and was seen leaving court with family members following the adjournment. The trial will resume in January 2025.
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The post Doctor’s sexual assault trial adjourned for January 2025 appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Saturday, December 21, 2024. 9:09 am CST. By Breaking Belize News Staff: The trial of Dr. Desmond Arzu, a 40-year-old radiologist accused of sexually assaulting
The post Doctor’s sexual assault trial adjourned for January 2025 appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
