Elward McKay pleads guilty to robbery and dangerous harm in Ladyville attack; co-defendant faces trial

By Aaron Humes: At the start of a trial for attempted murder and robbery in the High Court on Tuesday, one of the two accused decided to plead guilty to a lesser charge, but his alleged co-conspirator challenged The Crown to prove their case.

Elward McKay and Alexander Bainton, both of Ladyville, Belize District, were recently indicted for the crimes of dangerous harm and robbery of Tyrone Scott on September 1, 2016. Scott was robbed of assorted items valued at $1,033.75 and stabbed as many as six times but survived.

According to Scott, he met McKay in front of Sky Supermarket in Ladyville and the two walked down an alley located next to the supermarket when, as they were walking, Scott said he saw a young man emerge from the bushy area with a knife in his hand. The attacker demanded he hand over all he had, which Scott did, then handed over the knife to McKay and further searched Scott, inflicting six stab wounds to the upper chest area and stomach.

Initially, McKay and Bainton were charged with dangerous harm, which was upgraded to attempted murder, and robbery; however, on indictment, the men were read charges of dangerous harm and robbery.

Appearing before Justice Candace Nanton, McKay, represented by David Moralez, pleaded guilty, while Bainton pleaded not guilty.

Bainton remains out on bail until his trial begins on April 15.

McKay was re-released on bail of $6,00 and surety or two sureties of $3,000 pending sentencing with conditions. He must report to the Ladyville Police Station on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.; avoid the virtual complainant, and avoid arrest for other offenses.

Crown Counsel Porsha Staine Ferguson prosecuted.

Sentencing for McKay is to be announced as Justice Nanton ordered several reports to be available including a Social Inquiry Report, an Antecedent Report and a Victim Impact Statement.

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