An Unusual Charge for Carrying 5-Gallon Water on Bicycle

A shelf attendant from an Indian shop in downtown Belize City found himself in court today on an unusual charge. Thirty-four-year-old Harrison Sutherland, famously known as “Dr. Sutherland” a Belama resident, was charged for carrying a Crystal five-gallon water bottle on his bicycle in a way that allegedly prevented him from having full control of the bike. Sutherland, who appeared in court without a lawyer, shared his ordeal with us while waiting to be called in. He pleaded not guilty to the charge and wanted to explain what happened, but the magistrate told him he didn’t need to present his defense until the trial date. Sutherland was granted self-bail of one hundred dollars and released. This misdemeanor charge is quite rare, especially for something as simple as carrying a water bottle on a bicycle. Sutherland told us he didn’t even know such a law existed. He felt traumatized after spending almost an entire day in police custody, from 11:30 a.m. when he was stopped on Queen Street, until 11:30 p.m. when he was finally released on bail. He said he felt violated, especially since he was just helping an elderly woman by carrying the water bottle for her. Sutherland is due back in court on March sixth, 2025.