Peruvian Judge Receives Suspended Sentence for Favoring Fugitive Ex-Governor
A Peruvian judge has been handed a three-year suspended prison sentence after being found guilty of breach of law for actions that benefited Vladimir Cerrón, a fugitive former regional governor. The ruling, confirmed by the Supreme Court of Justice, underscores the Public Ministry’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability within the judiciary.
Background: The Case Against Judge Alain Salas
The case centers around Alain Salas, a specialized judge in Acobamba, who, according to the Public Ministry, issued judicial resolutions “manifestly contrary to the law.” These rulings allegedly aided Cerrón in a criminal proceeding related to charges of incompatible negotiation. A senior official stated that the judge admitted and resolved a habeas corpus claim in favor of Cerrón, effectively nullifying a conviction that had not yet become final.
This decision directly contravened Article 4 of the Constitutional Procedural Code (Law 28237), which outlines the proper procedures for legal remedies against judicial resolutions. Critically, the judge’s actions occurred while an appeal filed by the Public Ministry remained unresolved.
Prosecutor’s Office Demonstrates Deliberate Negligence
During the trial, the Prosecutor’s Office successfully argued that Salas deliberately failed to verify the current status of the criminal process. Furthermore, the judge did not provide a reasoned justification for deviating from established constitutional norms. This lack of due diligence, prosecutors contended, constituted the crime of breach of law.
“The evidence clearly demonstrated a deliberate disregard for legal procedure,” a source close to the investigation revealed.
Supreme Court Upholds Sentence and Increases Civil Compensation
Following an appeal to the Supreme Court, the initial sentence against Salas was upheld. In a significant development, the court also increased the amount of civil compensation owed to the State from S/ 3,000 to S/ 5,000. This increase reaffirms the solidity of the investigation and the fiscal action taken by the Public Ministry.
Commitment to Justice and the Rule of Law
The Public Ministry has reiterated its unwavering commitment to legality, the correct administration of justice, and the prosecution of any conduct that threatens the constitutional order and the rule of law. This case serves as a stark reminder that judicial officials are held to the highest standards of integrity and accountability. The outcome reinforces the principle that no one, regardless of position, is above the law.
