Elia Lanza

Elia Lanza, a 34-year-old resident of the Belama area in Belize City, gained media attention after pleading guilty to aggravated assault against freelance court reporter Anita Nembhard. The incident occurred in January 2025, shortly after Nembhard reported on Lanza's prior drug-related offenses. Lanza was fined $1,333 and bound to keep the peace for one year, avoiding a potential prison sentence. During her court appearance, she expressed remorse for her actions, which were driven by anger and frustration, and received a warning from the Chief Magistrate about the seriousness of her conduct in public spaces.