William “Danny” Mason Indicted on Kidnapping and Blackmail Charges

William “Danny” Mason and Ryan Rhaburn were indicted at the High Court this morning before Justice Nigel Pilgrim, each facing two counts of kidnapping. Mason was additionally charged with blackmail. Both men pleaded not guilty.

Mason seemed surprised at the development, stating he was unaware that a retrial had been ordered in his case. He believed a letter had been sent to the Chief Justice regarding how the matter would proceed and was shocked to learn that his case had been transferred from Belmopan to Belize City for a retrial.

Mason appeared in court without legal representation, as his attorney, Hubert Elrington, is currently ill. He may need to seek new counsel and has requested 30 days to prepare. Meanwhile, Ryan Rhaburn was represented by Simeon Sampson. The case has been adjourned until October 17, 2024. Justice Pilgrim has instructed that Mason be provided with the necessary documents related to case management, and all parties are required to file their case management forms by October 11, 2024.

Mason and Rhaburn are accused of kidnapping businessman Lloyd Thiessen and his wife, Rosie, in May 2016 at Mason’s ranch near Mile 31 along the George Price Highway. The alleged kidnapping is said to have arisen from a business dispute, as the couple had reportedly paid Mason $300,000 to import corn, which was never delivered. When they confronted him about the matter, the kidnapping allegedly occurred.