Delivery Man Arrested on Drug Charges, Claims He Was Set Up

Robert Glenford Thomas, a 42-year-old courier for Atlantic Restaurant in Belize, has been charged with possession of a controlled drug and two counts of drug trafficking following his arrest on April 14, 2023. Police searched Thomas and found 35 grams of marijuana, 1.5 grams of powdered cocaine, and 1.5 grams of crack cocaine in his possession.

Thomas initially pleaded guilty to the charges, hoping to resolve the matter with a fine. However, he later changed his plea, claiming that he believes he was set up. The sitting Magistrate entered a not guilty plea on Thomas' behalf and offered him bail in the sum of $3,000 plus one surety. Thomas is due back in court on June 27.

As a delivery man, also known as a "run man" in Belize, Thomas' arrest has raised questions about the security and reliability of courier services in the country. The case also highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and the challenges they face in gathering evidence and securing convictions.

According to court records, Thomas has no prior criminal history and has been employed as a delivery man for Atlantic Restaurant for several years. His employer has not issued any public statement regarding the arrest or Thomas' future employment status.

The outcome of Thomas' case could have significant implications for the courier industry in Belize and the country's broader efforts to address drug-related crime. If convicted, Thomas could face substantial fines and potential imprisonment. However, if he is able to prove that he was indeed set up, it could raise concerns about the tactics used by law enforcement and the reliability of evidence in drug cases.

As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by those in the courier industry, law enforcement, and the general public. The court's decision could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future and may prompt changes in the way that courier services operate and are regulated in Belize.

For now, Thomas remains free on bail while awaiting his next court appearance. The prosecution will need to present compelling evidence to support the charges against him, while Thomas and his legal team will likely seek to challenge the circumstances of his arrest and the validity of the evidence seized by police.

Key Takeaways

• Robert Glenford Thomas, a 42-year-old courier, charged with drug possession and trafficking.
• Thomas initially pleaded guilty but later claimed he was set up, pleading not guilty.
• Thomas has no prior criminal history and has worked as a delivery man for years.
• Outcome of the case could impact the courier industry and drug trafficking efforts in Belize.
• Thomas is free on bail while awaiting his next court appearance on June 27.