11:31 | Madrid (Spain), Jan. 30.
Spain's National Audience Central Court of Instruction No. 5 in Madrid denied a new release request from Peruvian ex-Supreme Judge Cesar Hinostroza, said Amado Enco, Ad Hoc State Attorney for such extradition case, on Wednesday.
Led by Spanish judge Jose de la Mata Amaya, the court states the charges against Hinostroza are extremely serious, as well as the
sentences he might receive as the alleged leader of a criminal organization.
According to De la Mata, it is not appropriate to review the defense's statements in the
extradition file but during the criminal proceedings to be conducted in Peru.
Likewise, he emphasized the January 28 resolution states that Hinostroza
fled the Inca country avoiding accusations and responsibilities, even though he was aware of the criminal proceedings against him.
This is besides the fact that the ex-magistrate has no working and economic roots in Spain, which might pose a risk of escape.
The Spaniard also ruled out the existence of political persecution in Peru.
About the case
Cesar Hinostroza is implicated in
a series of audio recordings released by Panorama TV show and investigative journalism site IDL-Reporteros.
In the conversations,
the former judge offers and accepts favors to and from National Council of the Magistracy (CNM) members and other officials. These corrupt actions were harshly criticized by most Peruvians including President Martin Vizcarra.
On October 4, 2018, Peruvian Congress approved that Hinostroza be dismissed, banned from holding public office for 10 years, and accused of organized crime involvement.
He was also accused of allegedly committing the crimes of illegal sponsorship, influence peddling, and incompatible negotiation.
On October 17, the Judicial Branch issued a search notice and an international arrest warrant against ex-Supreme Court Judge Hinostroza, following a preventive detention request by the Public Ministry.
(END) FHG/CVC/RMB/MVB
Published: 1/30/2019