An incident of illegal entry into Belize by sea has resulted in prison time for an American national. On March 15, 2025, Rodney Booher Lee Jr., a 49-year-old mechanic from Menifee, California, entered Belize unlawfully by boat. He reportedly arrived near San Pedro Town through the Caribbean Sea, bypassing all authorized ports of entry.
Authorities apprehended Lee Jr. over the weekend and transferred him to the custody of Ladyville Police. Afterward, immigration officers filed charges against him for entering the country illegally. This afternoon, he appeared in Belize City’s Court #3 without legal representation.
There, Lee Jr. quickly pleaded guilty to a single charge under Belize’s immigration laws. He was labeled “deemed prohibited,” a status applied to individuals who enter the country without proper authorization. Although the court imposed a fine of $1,000 BZD plus $5 in court costs, Lee paid the full amount immediately.
Still, the magistrate remanded Lee to the Belize Central Prison. He will remain there while authorities finalize plans for his repatriation to the United States. So far, officials have not confirmed a specific date for his return. However, the Immigration Department successfully applied for a removal order, which the court granted.
This case of illegal entry into Belize by sea highlights the country’s strict enforcement of immigration laws. Moreover, it underscores the risks of entering without documentation, especially by unapproved routes. Belizean authorities continue to monitor coastal access points and act swiftly against unlawful crossings.
As the country strengthens its border enforcement, this latest arrest sends a clear message. Illegal entry by any means—whether by air or sea—will lead to legal consequences and removal from the country.
