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Judge Weighs Javier Duarte’s Early-Release Bid as FGR Cites Misconduct and Unresolved Case

The judge paused the hearing to take final arguments ahead of a ruling on the early-release bid.

Overview

  • The hearing resumed on November 19 with Judge Ángela Zamorano Herrera presiding and was recessed after testimony to proceed to closing arguments.
  • Prosecutors presented six witnesses, including Veracruz fiscal Denisse Moreno, who described repeated refusals to attend prior hearings and an instance where Duarte was restrained in a chair to appear.
  • The FGR argues Duarte is ineligible for pre-release due to poor conduct in prison and in court proceedings, and it questioned whether his required activity plan complies with law.
  • The defense, led by Pablo Campuzano, says Duarte has served about 95–96% of his nine-year sentence and meets all statutory requirements, asserting he could leave custody within hours if approved.
  • A Veracruz case tied to obstruction in a 2013 forced-disappearance investigation was canceled in 2024 after a key evidence item was voided, but authorities say the appeal is pending; if release is denied, his term ends April 15, 2026.