By Belize Live News Staff: Ivan Ayuso, former Senior Accounts Officer for the National Sports Council, began serving his prison sentence on Friday after being remanded into custody. Ayuso awaits sentencing for theft and money laundering, involving over $1 million of government funds.
Ayuso, previously out on $300,000 bail since 2021, now faces the High Court of Justice Nigel Pilgrim for sentencing. The court will hear character witness testimony before determining a suitable punishment.
Although originally facing a potential maximum sentence of ten years per charge, Ayuso is now assured a maximum of five years due to a plea agreement with the prosecution. This deal reflects his guilty plea, which spared the court a lengthy trial.
Ayuso’s defense attorney, Darrell Bradley, highlighted his client’s acceptance of responsibility, remorse, and clean record prior to these offenses. He portrayed Ayuso as a family man who has adhered to bail conditions without incident, requesting a moderate sentence that considers his family’s well-being.
