By Belize Live News Staff: Corporal Durman Dawson has been dismissed from the Belize Police Department following a highly controversial incident last year at the San Ignacio Police Station, where he was caught on camera sexually assaulting a female colleague.
The incident, which took place on Valentine’s Day, saw Dawson approach the female officer from behind and grope her breast. The officer immediately defended herself by slapping Dawson, prompting him to retaliate by striking her in front of other officers.
A disciplinary tribunal reviewed the case and found Dawson guilty of multiple charges, including “Prejudice to Good Order and Discipline,” “Striking a Member of the Belize Police Department,” and “Engaging in Conduct of Major Consequence.” The severity of these violations resulted in his termination from the police force.
Dawson now faces further legal repercussions, as his trial for harm and sexual assault is set to commence next week.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and raised concerns about accountability and professionalism within the Belize Police Department. Officials have stated their commitment to fostering a work environment built on respect and discipline to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
