The man called Jack Charles, the owner of Extra House Supermarket in Belize City appeared in Magistrate's court today to answer charges for customs evasion. In the first press release we've ever seen form the Customs Department, Charles was named for making a false declaration on 150 sacks of rice. He today appeared in court number two where he pleaded not guilty to 5 offences and was bailed for 2,500 dollars. While the Charles case is not remarkable - greater offences pass regularly without the benefit of a press release - what is notable is that Charles has a constitutional case pending before the Supreme Court against guess who? - The Customs Department. That's right, secured the services of Dean Barrow early this year after Customs seized several computers he had cleared and paid duty on. While that matter is before the Chief Justice, charles, it seems, will remain the public whipping boy of the customs top brass.

Tags Jack Charles Extra House Supermarket Customs Department Dean Barrow Belize City The Supreme Court