By Breaking Belize News Staff: A 31-year-old counsellor at Muffles College in Orange Walk has been criminally charged following allegations of sexual misconduct involving a 17-year-old female student.
Hayden Mendez appeared in court on Monday, October 19, 2026, charged with sexual assault and encouraging child pornography. He was granted bail.
According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, the investigation began after police discovered a screenshot circulating on social media suggesting sexually explicit interactions between the counsellor and the student.
Investigators subsequently visited the school, contacted the student and her parent, and involved the Human Services Department. Police recorded several statements and collected evidence before bringing charges against Mendez.
Smith indicated that the alleged incidents occurred between 2025 and 2026, describing the allegations as a breach of trust involving an adult employed at the institution.
Police are also conducting a separate investigation into how the school’s administration handled the allegations, including whether appropriate action was taken after the matter was brought to its attention.
Last week, BBN reported that Muffles College had placed a staff member on administrative leave after receiving an allegation of misconduct on October 6. The school pledged to cooperate with investigations by police and social services.
Police have not determined whether there are additional alleged victims and are encouraging anyone with relevant information or similar experiences to come forward.
Mendez has not been convicted of the offences, and the allegations remain before the court.
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