Police say Alberto August arrest is now a matter for the court to determine
By Breaking Belize News Staff: Police say the cybercrime charge brought against former UDP Chairman Alberto August is now a matter for the court to determine, following public debate over whether his social media post amounted to satire, political commentary, or a criminal offense. August was arrested under Belize’s Cybercrime Act after sharing a social […] The post Police say Alberto August arrest is now a matter for the court to determine appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Black News 
By Breaking Belize News Staff: Police say the cybercrime charge brought against former UDP Chairman Alberto August is now a matter for the court to determine, following public debate over whether his social media post amounted to satire, political commentary, or a criminal offense.
August was arrested under Belize’s Cybercrime Act after sharing a social media post containing remarks falsely attributed to Minister of Home Affairs Oscar Mira in relation to the murder of Dr. Naum Bonilla. Mira publicly denied the remarks and vowed to pursue legal action.
During Monday’s press briefing, ASP Stacy Smith said she did not have the full charge sheet before her, but confirmed that she was aware of the matter and answered questions based on the public knowledge that August had been arrested and charged.
Asked whether August’s detention appeared irregular or punitive because the matter involved a non-violent alleged offense, Smith said she was not aware that the procedure used in August’s case was an anomaly. She said detention and interview are part of the investigative process.
Smith declined to comment on whether satire or mockery of a public official meets the threshold for a cybercrime offense, saying that question is now for the court.
Reporters also asked whether other persons who shared similar posts could face charges. Smith said police would need a report before an investigation is carried out and that police cannot simply assume a complainant’s feelings of ridicule or embarrassment.
The post Police say Alberto August arrest is now a matter for the court to determine appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
