Posted: Friday, October 17, 2025. 10:36 am CST.
Press Release
The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Solid Waste Management, through the Forest Department, has successfully secured a conviction in a wildlife case involving the illegal possession of protected species parts. On October 15, 2025, Mr. Jordan David Woods was found guilty in the Stann Creek District Court for unlawful possession of forest produce, specifically two jaguar teeth, in violation of Section 19 of the Forest Act, Chapter 213 of the Laws of Belize (Revised Edition 2017).
Mr. Woods was fined $5000 plus $5.00 in court costs. If not paid by October 15, 2026, he will face six months’ imprisonment. Section 19 of the Forest Act clearly states that no person shall possess or have in their custody any forest produce without lawful authority. This includes wildlife parts such as skins, claws, or teeth. Jaguars are a protected species in Belize, and any trade or possession of their body parts is strictly prohibited.
The Forest Department extends sincere appreciation to the Belize Police Department and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for their support in bringing this case to justice. Special acknowledgement is given to Corporal Keyren Williams and her team, as well as Mr. George L. Gomez from the DPP’s Office, for their diligence and teamwork throughout the legal process. This conviction is a clear reminder that Belize’s environmental laws are in place to protect the country’s rich biodiversity, and violations will have serious consequences. The Forest Department will continue to take firm action against anyone found engaging in wildlife crimes.
The Forest Department urges the public to help safeguard the country’s natural heritage. Anyone with information on illegal wildlife activities or human-wildlife conflicts is encouraged to call the Wildlife Hotline at 610-1524. Together, we can protect Belize’s wildlife and preserve its natural heritage for future generations.
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The post Belize Forest Department secured conviction of unlawful possession of forest produce appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Friday, October 17, 2025. 10:36 am CST. Press Release The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Solid Waste Management, through the Forest Department, has
The post Belize Forest Department secured conviction of unlawful possession of forest produce appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
