Police Officer in Belize Arrested, Charged over Alleged Casino Chips Theft

A police officer from the San Pedro Police Department in Belize, Central America, was recently charged with theft of casino chips from a detainee, a newly released report suggests. The case involves a 28-year-old police officer identified with the initials K.R.D.M., who faced an investigation after accusations of stealing cash and casino chips from one suspect. The police officer, who is a San Pedro Town resident, allegedly stole $320 in casino chips, along with $15 in cash from a 28-year-old male suspect with the initials, K.S., Channel 5 Belize reports.

An investigation into the actions of the police officer was launched after the suspect filed a claim, alleging that while in custody, the chips and cash he had went missing. Law enforcement conducted an internal investigation and reviewed CCTV footage.

Subsequently, the 28-year-old police officer was initially detained and then arrested. K.R.D.M. faces charges of theft due to the missing cash and chips and was officially arrested on Tuesday this week. He was notified on his constitutional rights. It is unclear what punishment the 28-year-old police officer may face. The recent media report did not confirm whether or not the police officer was dismissed.

Arrest over Possession of Controlled Drugs

The 28-year-old suspect was from the San Pedrito area in San Pedro Town was detained earlier this month. The bartender visited the Palms Casino on September 10, 2024. While enjoying his time at the casino, the man was approached by a female police officer.

After searching the 28-year-old, the officer uncovered “controlled drugs.” This resulted in the arrest of the suspect who was booked in at the San Pedro Police Station.

Cash and Chips Go Missing After a Suspect’s Arrest

While in custody, the man had to give up all of his personal belongings which included a cellphone, a silver chain, a watch, as well as $15 in cash and $320 in casino chips. The casino chips consisted of 22 red chips at $10 each and two green chips of $50 each. Per the media report, the 28-year-old suspect signed the necessary documents about his personal belongings.

The bartender was charged with possession of controlled drugs and pleaded guilty at the San Pedro Magistrate Court on September 11. For his transgression, the 28-year-old received a fine. Upon the man’s return to the police station, he uncovered that the chips and cash were missing. This resulted in the filed report against the police officer who was arrested later on.