Judge Admits Key Evidence in Miguelito Encalada Double Murder Trial

A major development has emerged in the ongoing double murder trial of Belizean barber Miguelito Encalada, as proceedings continue before the High Court in Belize City.  The case, which stems from a 2023 shooting incident in Ladyville that claimed the lives of Encalada’s common-law wife, Desiree Elizabeth Gonzalez, and his brother, George Vincent Rochester, moved forward yesterday with a key ruling following a voir dire hearing.  Presiding over the matter, Justice Candace Nanton ruled that certain pieces of evidence would be admissible in the trial, while others would not. Specifically, the court accepted the written notes of interview and video-recorded evidence, but rejected an alleged oral statement attributed to Encalada, in which police claim he said, “My gun is there.” Prosecution, led by Crown Counsel Joseph Perez, closed its case after calling nearly twenty witnesses. The prosecution is expected to submit written arguments by April 22, while the defense will file its submissions by May 4. A decision in the case has been reserved for May 22.  During the proceedings, Encalada exercised his right to give an unsworn dock statement. In addressing the court, he denied any involvement in the killings, maintaining his innocence.  According to his account, he had been at his establishment on the night of the incident when he fell asleep and was later awakened by what he described as gunmen who forced him to the ground and robbed him of several thousand dollars. He told the court that after the attackers left, he discovered his loved ones lying injured.  Encalada concluded his statement by telling the court that he had nothing to do with the deaths of his wife and brother and described himself as an innocent man. Evidence presented during the trial also included testimony from a police firearms officer confirming that Encalada was the licensed owner of a 9mm pistol prior to the murders. Additionally, a forensic expert indicated that ballistic fragments recovered from the scene were consistent with that licensed firearm. The trial, which began earlier this month, now moves into its final phase as both sides prepare their written submissions ahead of the court’s ruling.