Darrell Grant Sentenced to 30 Years for 2008 Murder of Sandra Ruiz in Belize Home Invasion

Darrell Grant has been sentenced to a fixed 30-year term without parole for the 2008 murder of Sandra Ruiz in a home invasion in Kings Park, Belize. During the incident, Ruiz was sexually assaulted and fatally attacked with a hammer.

The sentencing took place 15 years after the crime occurred on August 12, 2008. Justice Nigel Pilgrim handed down the sentence after considering several aggravating factors, including the violent nature of the crime, Grant's intent, and the invasion of Ruiz's home. Grant initially contested the murder charge, claiming coercion by the police, but Justice Pilgrim found no mitigating factors.

In addition to murdering Ruiz, Grant also assaulted her six-year-old daughter during the home invasion, leaving the child in a coma for 10 days. Ruiz's eldest daughter, who witnessed the traumatic events, described the lasting impact on their family. "I saw when he was beating my mom in her head with the hammer," she recounted in court.

Grant was initially sentenced to 33 years, with one year added for aggravating factors and three years deducted for mitigating factors. The fixed 30-year sentence will be served without the possibility of parole.

Why this matters: This case highlights the severe consequences of violent home invasions and the long-lasting trauma inflicted on victims and their families. The sentencing sends a strong message that such brutal crimes will not be tolerated by the justice system.

During the court proceedings, Justice Pilgrim emphasized the gravity of the crime and the need for a sentence that reflects the severity of Grant's actions. The 30-year term without parole ensures that Grant will face the consequences of his violent acts and provides a measure of justice for Sandra Ruiz and her family.

Key Takeaways

• Darrell Grant sentenced to 30 years without parole for 2008 murder
• Victim Sandra Ruiz sexually assaulted and fatally attacked with hammer
• Grant also assaulted Ruiz's 6-year-old daughter, leaving her in a coma
• Justice Pilgrim emphasized gravity of crime and need for severe sentence
• Sentencing aims to provide justice for Ruiz and deter similar violent crimes