Bevan Alford Called to Defend Himself in Freddy Chicas Murder Trial

Twenty-two-year-old Bevan Alford has been called upon to answer to the charge of murder in connection with the 2023 execution-style killing of Freddy Edwardo Chicas. The ruling came today from Justice Nigel Pilgrim in the High Court after the judge dismissed a no-case submission made by Alford’s attorney, Norman Moore.  Justice Pilgrim told the court that there was sufficient evidence against Alford which, when taken at its highest, could allow a properly directed jury to convict. As a result, Alford was called to present his defense in the matter.  Chicas was fatally shot on March 5, 2023, along John Smith Road in Belize City. According to evidence presented during the trial, the prosecution relied heavily on testimony from two police witnesses who claimed Alford confessed to involvement in the killing.  One witness, a female police sergeant who testified that Alford was dating her daughter at the time, told the court that he admitted responsibility for Chicas’ death. The sergeant said Alford had sent her a photograph of the deceased before allegedly telling her he wanted to surrender himself to authorities. She further testified that Alford told her, quote, “I send someone for him,” suggesting the killing may have been carried out as a contract hit.  Another witness, a male BDF officer, testified that Alford admitted to him that he had killed someone, although he did not initially identify the victim by name. The officer also told the court that Alford later threatened him, warning him not to disclose the conversation.  The prosecution also presented notes of interview in which police say Alford confessed to killing Chicas. However, during the course of the trial, Alford maintained that he did not kill Chicas and only moved the body.  Attorney Norman Moore argued that the prosecution had failed to establish sufficient evidence against his client and challenged the credibility of the police witnesses. Moore further submitted that the alleged confession evidence was unreliable and should not be given significant weight by the court.  After being called upon to answer the charge, Alford chose to give an unsworn dock statement. In an emotional address to the court, he described himself as a recovering addict struggling with depression and denied any involvement in the murder.  Alford told the court that he had attempted to take his own life in the past and said he wanted another opportunity to continue his education and build a better future. He insisted he was not a criminal and maintained his innocence in the matter.  Justice Nigel Pilgrim has adjourned the trial until June 3, for oral submissions, if any, from the parties. A final decision in the case is expected sometime in July. Alford remains on remand at the Belize Central Prison.