On New Year's night PC Tyrell Rowley delivered a power kick to the head of Jamir Leal which was felt all across the country. It was caught on camera, went viral and was featured many times in the news.
But - even with all the public uproar - at first, it seemed the cop might face no criminal charge. But, now, Jamir Leal has made a complaint, and today - 22 days after the incident - Rowley was taken to court and arraigned on a single charge of wounding. 21 year old PC Rowley, a resident of Far West Street, Belize City appeared before Magistrate Emmerson Banner in the Belize City Magistrate's Court at around 2:30. He pleaded not guilty to a single count of wounding upon Jamir Leal and was offered and met bail of $1,000 dollars.
His next court date is set for March 13, 2019 but in the San Pedro Magistrates' Court. PC Rowley is already facing internal disciplinary charges. And, the Leal family plans to sue the Belize Police Department for the beating of their loved ones.
We note that in his statement to police, Rowley said that he was called to respond to a fight in progress at Playa Bar and Grill. He said when he tried to stop the fight in progress, two men punched and kicked him repeatedly before he could subdue them. These, he claims were the Leal brother. He said that a mob formed and someone tried to remove his holstered firearm.
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