By Belize Live News: Freelance “journalist” Joseph Budna is now behind bars following cyberbullying charges filed in Orange Walk Town. The latest twist comes just weeks after Budna publicly demanded justice for an alleged attack on him in San Felipe Village—an incident for which no charges were filed.
This week, Budna was formally remanded to the Belize Central Prison after being charged with two counts under the Cyberbullying Act. According to officials, he used social media to target a woman from San Lazaro Village, causing her substantial emotional distress and damaging her reputation.
Police say Budna published inflammatory content that crossed the line from criticism into harassment. His online videos reportedly contained derogatory language and unsubstantiated claims that the woman had personal ties to politicians. The content, originally recorded in Spanish, was translated by authorities and included in the case.
ASP Stacy Smith confirmed that the charges stem from “a report made by a female in relation to several postings of Mr. Budna,” and added that police are also “in the process of recording statements” connected to Budna’s earlier report about his own attack.
The arrest occurred after Budna allegedly attempted to evade police by slipping out of a back door. Officers intercepted and detained him before he could flee the property.
Despite pleading not guilty, Budna was denied bail. He is expected to reappear in court on June 10, as police continue investigating both the current charges and the prior complaints made by and against him.
