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Algeciras Church Killing Trial Goes to Verdict With Defense Seeking Full Insanity Exemption

Judges must choose between a terrorism conviction with 50 years in prison or compulsory psychiatric internment.

Overview

  • The National Court declared the case seen for sentencing after the defense’s closing argument, and Yassine Kanjaa declined to use his right to a final statement.
  • The case stems from the 2023 machete attacks in two Algeciras churches that killed sacristan Diego Valencia and seriously injured a priest, acts the defendant admits.
  • Defense lawyer Francisco Andújar argues a paranoid‑religious psychosis nullified Kanjaa’s capacities and requests full exculpation with psychiatric internment.
  • The prosecutor maintains the terrorism classification and seeks 50 years in prison, contending mental illness can coexist with terrorist intent.
  • Newly published audio of Kanjaa’s 2023 judicial testimony features violent religious rhetoric, while forensic experts and the 11‑M victims group diverge over his criminal responsibility.