7 News Belize

Alleged Child Rapists Get Off, Accuser Abroad
posted (May 29, 2018)
It made major news in 2011 when two grown men were accused of the gang rape of a 14 year old second form student. But tonight they are free - after a major mis-step in the prosecution's case.

The rape happened in January of 2011 at the end of University Drive, in the West Landivar area of Belize City. At the time, the girl gave a statement saying that she had left school early and was playing video games at a male friend's house. She then asked for a ride home to Belama with then 22 year old Kevon Bardalez. She says she got into the car with him and his friend who was driving, 35 year old Jordy Rhaburn.

She alleged that instead of taking her home, they took her to a deserted area in west Landivar where she said Rhaburn pinned her down and Bardalez then raped her.

The minor told police that when she asked them why they were doing that to her, both men looked at her and laughed.

Eventually, she managed to run off and got help from a couple that lived nearby.

Her injuries were classified as grievous harm. On January 31, 2011, police arrested and charged Rhaburn and Bardalez for the offense of abetment to rape and rape after the girl was able to positively identify them in an identification parade.

7 years later the case came to trial at the Supreme Court, but - before it started - the Crown, represented by Kileru Awich wanted to discontinue the case. He said the victim who is now 22 - lives abroad but had agreed to testify via teleconference. But for some reason, that wasn't properly arranged and this morning, and he was unable to start the trial without the victim.

But the jury of 9 had already been empaneled, so, newly appointed Supreme Court Justice, Colin Williams ordered the jurors to enter a not guilty verdict against both accused men and they walked free.

Jordy Rhaburn who is now 42, was unrepresented while musician Kevon Bardalez, who is now 29 was represented by Attorney, Ronell Gonzalez.

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