Taxi driver granted bail despite sexual assault allegations

By Breaking Belize News Staff: Rafael Murrillo, a 41-year-old taxi driver from Orange Walk, faced the Orange Walk Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on charges of sexual assault against a minor aged 9 years 8 months. Allegations state that on April 24, 2024, Murrillo molested the young girl by inappropriately touching her private parts while inside his taxi.

The case was transferred to the Belize City Magistrate’s Court for bail consideration after the sitting Magistrate in Orange Walk recused herself. Today, in Court #5 of the Belize City Magistrate’s Court, bail was granted to Murrillo despite objections from the prosecution.

The Magistrate offered bail at $7,000 plus one surety of the same amount or two sureties of $3,500 each, which Murrillo met. Conditions of his bail include staying away from the victim and her family, staying 100 yards away from her, and weekly reporting to the Orange Walk Police Station.

Murrillo’s next court appearance is scheduled for August 29, 2024, in Orange Walk District. The Prosecutor highlighted concerns about the victim’s tender age and the seriousness of the offense, arguing against bail. However, Murrillo’s attorney emphasized that the accusations were mere allegations and not among the offenses for which bail could be denied outright.

The attorney stressed that his client is innocent until proven guilty and would comply with bail conditions. Despite objections, the Magistrate exercised discretion in granting bail with stringent conditions.

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