Institute of Archaeology Disappointed with Delay

But is justice delayed justice denied? Representatives from the Institute of Archeology and CTV-Three from Orange Walk were all present at court today to testify in the case. Prosecutor Leeroy Banner appeared on their behalf. The destruction of the monument took place way back in May 2013 and today, there was yet another adjournment in the case involving U.D.P. politician, Grijalva.

Dr. John Morris, Director, Institute of Archeology

“It has been a long time now. It’s been almost two years that this case has been dragging in the courts. We are very close to getting a hearing. In April twentieth, we will have a hearing in Corozal. It was brought here to Belize City today to clear up some matters between the attorneys. But you know when attorneys get hold of a case; it usually takes a long time for it to come to fruition. We are happy that we are at this point, going to get some closure on this particular case because for us as Belizeans and for us as professionals, especially the Institute of Archeology, NICH, it is very important that we conclude this matter.”

Duane Moody

“Sir, do you think that justice is going to be serviced specifically in favor for the institute?”

John Morris

Dr. John Morris

“Well it is for the courts to decide. Everyone in Belize is entitled to a fair hearing and that is why we are considered a democratic country and the courts will decide. We know that the damage has been done. It is just to ascertain and to find out who was responsible for the damage. The courts will decide that for us in Belize here.”

Duane Moody

“The defense attorney spoke of new video coming into evidence that was not disclosed to them. Can you talk to us on that?”

Dr. John Morris

“Well it is the same videos that we had that was taken by the various TV stations and also that we took. We disclosed all of that to the defense. I think they just want more time to review these videos. But the videos are very clear as to what was done at the site. And the videos have the machinery there and we have traced back the ownership of the machineries.”

Bryan Neal

Reporter

“It has been almost two years that this has been delayed and nothing has started. How has this affected your client and what’s the importance of getting it started?”

Bryan Neal, Attorney for Denny Grijalva

“Well his reputation has been affected because as long as this hangs over his head, this will affect him. We have had several adjournments by the prosecution and it seems that they were unwilling up to Wednesday to prosecute the case. But there is some reenergized energy on the part of the prosecution so we will see what happens.”

The case has been adjourned to April twentieth where it will be heard in the Corozal Magistrate Court.