Posted: Saturday, December 21, 2024. 7:00 am CST.
By Breaking Belize News Staff: The High Court convened last Friday to address the forfeiture application involving convicted prisoner Ivan Ayuso. While the proceedings did not fully commence, Justice Nigel Pilgrim oversaw preliminary matters to streamline the process, which has faced significant delays due to circumstances beyond the control of those involved.
In a move aimed at ensuring fairness, Justice Pilgrim ordered all parties to file submissions ahead of the next hearing. The latest contention in the case comes from Tanya Savery, Ayuso’s wife, who recently joined the forfeiture proceedings. Represented by Attorney Erin Quiros, Savery is challenging the Director of Public Prosecutions’ (DPP) supplementary witness statement and has filed an application to have the forfeiture struck out on grounds of limitation issues.
Justice Pilgrim directed attorney Quiros to submit her arguments by January 3, 2025, specifically addressing the limitation period and the burden of proof. The case has been adjourned until January 31, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.
During Friday’s session, Justice Pilgrim pressed attorney Quiros to clarify her objections to the supplementary statement. Quiros argued that the burden of proof rests with the Crown and challenged the evidence presented, suggesting it warrants further examination through witness testimony. She also noted discrepancies related to funds deposited into Savery’s account from the Sports Council, while acknowledging these deposits occurred.
The DPP, represented by Cheryl Lynn-Vidal, and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) are pursuing the forfeiture, with attorney Kimberly Wallace standing in for Ivan Ayuso’s primary lawyer, Darrell Bradley.
Justice Pilgrim reminded Ayuso that his sentencing—currently set at five years per count—remains in effect but will include his time on remand. Ayuso was advised that while he could waive his presence during the forfeiture proceedings, his attendance was in his best interest given the stakes of the case.
The court’s decision on these matters will be determined in the upcoming hearing, with Ayuso’s sentencing temporarily on hold as the forfeiture case continues.
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The post Forfeiture case of Ivan Ayuso advances in High Court amid legal challenges appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Saturday, December 21, 2024. 7:00 am CST. By Breaking Belize News Staff: The High Court convened last Friday to address the forfeiture application involving convicted
The post Forfeiture case of Ivan Ayuso advances in High Court amid legal challenges appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
