Danny Mason’s Kidnapping Trial to Begin Next Week

In less than a week, the kidnapping and blackmail trial against William ‘Danny’ Mason and Belmopan resident Ryan Rhaburn is set to begin. Today, Mason’s attorney, Peter Taylor, appeared virtually before Justice Nigel Pilgrim, requesting an adjournment to May first, 2025. Taylor claimed he hasn’t been compensated by Mason yet. However, with the trial just days away, DPP Cheryl Lynn-Vidal objected, stating that witnesses are ready, and the trial cannot be delayed further. Justice Pilgrim denied the request and informed Taylor that arrangements would be made for his compensation. The trial will proceed as scheduled on April twenty-ninth. Taylor also noted that Mason hasn’t arranged finances to fly him and his team to Belize. Mason and Rhaburn face charges for the kidnapping of Mennonite couple Lloyd and Rosey Friesen on May thirty-first, 2016, with Mason also charged with blackmail. Allegedly, they detained the Friesens by force and demanded $2,500 weekly for protection. Rhaburn is out on bail, while Mason remains at Belize Central Prison.