Career burglar remanded for recent incident; accomplice killed

Lenny Benguche

Thirty-three year old Lenny Benguche, one of two men caught in the act of breaking into a residence in Los Lagos last Thursday, was arraigned on a single charge of burglary when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith this evening. Benguche was hiding behind the house when police arrived on the scene. Police say that his accomplice, twenty-one year old Ryan Lozano, was later seen exiting the house wielding a crowbar and a knife. Lozano, however, was mortally wounded when he was shot by Ladyville police during their apprehension.  He died on Friday morning, but his mother disputes the police report and says that her son was shot on the back while he was held on the ground. This evening, Benguche, who appeared unrepresented, was charged with a single count despite not being found with any items from the home in his possession.  The court prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that Benguche has an extensive rap sheet which includes burglary and robbery.  He is also outstanding to the court for monies owed from a prior conviction.  Bail was subsequently denied and Benguche was remanded to the Belize Central Prison until June seventh.