The judicial process against the former senator Gustavo Penades reached a new chapter this Tuesday when the Justice Uruguayan decided to charge him with new crimes related to the qualified bribery and the criminal associationThe decision of Judge María Noel Odriozola responds to the development of an investigation of greater complexity, considered by the Prosecutor’s Office as crucial to the progress of the case.
In this context, the judge has allowed the investigation period to be extended until June next year, arguing that the Prosecutor’s Office needs more time to process the overwhelming amount of information accumulated during the process. This case, marked by its complexity, has tested both the resources of the Prosecutor’s Office and those of the defense, which is seeking to annul Penadés’s indictment.
In October 2023, Penadés was previously accused of 22 crimes which included remuneration for the sexual exploitation of minors, aggravated sexual abuse, among others. With this new charge, the Prosecutor’s Office headed by Alicia Ghione He argues that the former senator was part of a “plot” that involved illegally obtaining and handling information in order to protect his position.
Charges against Penadés expanded: arguments of the defense and the prosecution
However, the defense of Penadés, led by Homer Warriormaintains a firm stance against these accusations. Guerrero argues that his client was not the instigator of the illicit association, but was pressured to participate by the police officers involved. According to the lawyer, these individuals induced Penadés to make improper payments.
The prosecution, for its part, bases its indictment on evidence that, according to Ghione, demonstrates Penadés’ active participation in the criminal scheme. The case file highlights documented interactions between Penadés and other suspects, who allegedly exchanged sensitive information and carried out surveillance activities for illegal purposes.
In addition, the Prosecutor’s Office maintains that Penadés was a financier of this structure, and that figures such as Carlos Tarocowho has already been convicted, acted under his orders. This presents a picture in which the criminal plot goes beyond mere knowledge of the activities by Penadés.
Complexities of research
The investigation process faces additional complications due to the scope of the evidence and the need for an extension of the deadline. The Prosecutor’s Office has detailed the incorporation of new elements that could be critical, including the use of technology to unravel encrypted conversations linked to the case.
One of the most sensitive areas is the one involving psychological tests carried out by the Forensic Technical Institute to the victims, the results of which are essential to determining the facts. Access to the computer equipment of a former INAU psychologist has also been highlighted as an important part of the ongoing investigation.
According to Alicia Ghione, the ramifications of the Penadés case extend beyond the sexual crimes initials, covering a network of illicit activities that fully justify the latest round of charges against the former senator.
Position of the other parties
On the other hand, the defense of the other defendants insists that the Penadés proceedings should have been handled by a separate prosecutor, arguing that the delays should not harm the additional defendants. The precautionary measures and the possible infringement of rights are issues that will continue to be debated in the following days.
The victims’ lawyer, Soledad Suarezhas also stressed the damage already caused by media exposure and the importance of protecting those affected from future harm. The situation, according to Suarez, requires effective judicial action to prevent the repetition of such abuses of power.
Javier Benechrepresenting the Prosecutor’s Office, has confirmed that the debate on the precautionary measures will continue in a new hearing scheduled for this Wednesday. Meanwhile, the Penadés case remains one of the most complex and resonant in the current Uruguayan judicial system.
