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Another big case is in court this week.

In June of 2018, 58-year-old Manuel Pacheco, a well-known jeweler from Belize City, made headline news after he was charged with murder for the shooting death of his next-door neighbor, 50-year-old Jose Villanueva. His trial without jury started today, and the prosecution called one of their main witnesses to testify against him.

Villanueva owned property right next to Pacheco's business place, known as Pacheco's and Son's Jewelry, which located on East Collet Canal. The two had a history of disputes.

Well, evidence from this witness today is that the two began to argue over Villanueva's dog. It was reportedly barking for an extended period, which reportedly incensed Pacheco. This witness told the court today that she heard Pacheco demand to know why the dog was making so much noise, and if Villanueva could get it to quiet down. 

According to the witness, she heard when Villanueva responded saying, quote, "Shut up, and don't speak to me."

This witness later told the court that she heard their carrying on with their quarrel. She said that her attention was drawn to the two men just in time to see Pacheco lean over from the fence separating the two properties. According to the witness, the Pacheco was armed with what appeared to be a gun; he pointed it Villanueva and shot him in the abdomen area. As viewers are aware, that same injury later claimed Villanueva's life.

The trial continues tomorrow before Justice Colin Williams, and Crown Counsel Shanice Lovell has several more witnesses to call before closing her case. Pacheco is being represented by Senior Counsel Ellis Arnold.