Mexico City – Former Governor of Veracruz, Javier Duarte de Ochoa, is facing fresh legal challenges as a federal judge has formally charged him with embezzlement, specifically related to the misappropriation of 5 million pesos. The charges stem from allegations that funds earmarked for social programs in 2012 were diverted for other purposes, potentially prolonging his imprisonment despite nearing the completion of a previous sentence. This development throws into question Duarte’s anticipated release in April.
The decision to proceed with the case against Duarte was made by Judge Gustavo Aquiles Villaseñor at the Centro de Justicia Penal Federal, located within the Reclusorio Norte prison complex in Mexico City. Prosecutors presented 38 pieces of evidence suggesting Duarte directed a scheme to redirect federal funds intended for programs benefiting children, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations. According to the Fiscalía General de la República (FGR), only half of the initially allocated 10 million pesos reached the intended beneficiaries, with the remaining 5 million pesos transferred to state government resources instead of being returned to the federal treasury, as required.
Duarte’s legal team has already announced plans to appeal the judge’s decision. The imposition of preventative detention means Duarte will remain incarcerated for at least another six months, pending further investigation, with a deadline for the completion of the supplementary investigation set for August 17th, according to court documents. This new legal hurdle significantly impacts Duarte’s hopes for early release after serving nine years for prior convictions of criminal association and money laundering, for which he has been imprisoned since 2017.
The case centers around funds allocated for social programs in Veracruz in 2012. The FGR alleges that Duarte ordered his then-treasurer, Antonio Tareck Abdalá, to mix federal and state funds, ultimately diverting the 5 million pesos. Infobae reports that Duarte’s defense maintains his innocence and argues the charges are politically motivated.
Duarte’s Previous Sentence and Anticipated Release
Duarte had been nearing the end of his nine-year sentence for association with criminal organizations and money laundering, having served approximately 95% of the term. His defense had been preparing to request a review of his detention status prior to the anticipated April 15th release date. However, the new embezzlement charges and the judge’s decision to maintain preventative detention have effectively put those plans on hold. His lawyers intend to file another motion for a change in his detention status before April 15th, but the outcome remains uncertain.
“Politics Over Justice”
At the conclusion of the nearly 11-hour hearing, Duarte reportedly expressed his disillusionment with the legal process, telling the judge, “Politics wins over justice again.” This statement underscores the perception among his supporters that the legal proceedings are driven by political considerations rather than purely legal ones. El Universal noted that the defense viewed the judge’s decision as questionable.
What’s Next in the Case
The Fiscalía General de la República and Duarte’s defense team now have six months to gather additional evidence and prepare for trial. The case, identified as cause number 667/2025, will proceed with a full investigation and potential trial, potentially extending Duarte’s imprisonment significantly. The outcome of the appeal filed by Duarte’s legal team will also be a crucial factor in determining his immediate future. The legal proceedings will be closely watched as a test of Mexico’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption and hold former officials accountable for alleged wrongdoing.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
What are your thoughts on this case? Share your comments below.