Posted: Sunday, August 17, 2025. 9:57 am CST.
By Breaking Belize News Staff: The Dangriga High Court on Friday sentenced 40-year-old businessman Cornelio Martinez to nine years in prison for the death of Belizean American Christian Logan, who was shot nine times outside the Heratbeat nightclub in Mango Creek back in January 2024.
Martinez had initially been charged with murder but later pleaded guilty to manslaughter. Justice Antoinette Moore imposed the nine-year sentence along with $5,000 in compensation to Logan’s family.
The killing had sparked outrage among Logan’s relatives, who feared Martinez would escape with only a fine. On sentencing day, police increased their presence outside the courthouse in anticipation of protests, but no unrest was reported.
Logan’s sister, Classique Linarez, expressed relief at the outcome:
“I am really grateful that I feel pleased that the justice system never failed us today… It might not please everyone, but for me, the nine years is good. Because you know what, they have families out here who get less, who walk free.”
Defense attorney Richard Bradley explained that a plea to manslaughter became possible because both men had been drinking, there was an element of provocation, and Logan had also carried a firearm. Bradley noted that under those circumstances, a jury trial could have led to acquittal or a reduced sentence.
Despite the sentence, Logan’s relatives remained visibly emotional, with one sister describing it as “an execution-style murder.”
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The post Businessman gets 9 years for nightclub killing of Belizean American appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Sunday, August 17, 2025. 9:57 am CST. By Breaking Belize News Staff: The Dangriga High Court on Friday sentenced 40-year-old businessman Cornelio Martinez to nine
The post Businessman gets 9 years for nightclub killing of Belizean American appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
