Attorney Dickie Bradley criticizes Belize state of emergency

Attorney Richard “Dickie” Bradley has criticized the current 30-day state of emergency in Belize, arguing that it is an inappropriate tool for addressing the nation's crime problem. Bradley stated that the Constitution reserves emergency powers for disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or war, rather than for crime fighting.

Bradley also addressed concerns regarding police conduct under the extraordinary powers granted by the state of emergency, which covers Southside Belize City and parts of the Belize and Cayo Districts. He emphasized that while certain freedoms may be restricted, constitutional protections remain in effect. He accused the police department of disregarding legal standards regarding unlawful detention and encouraged citizens to seek legal recourse and sue for rights violations.