Amid controversy over the public announcement of the Monsalve rape investigation closure before formal notifications, national prosecutor Ángel Valencia and defender Verónica Encina emphasized procedural requirements, as the case advances toward oral trial.
Following regional prosecutor Xavier Armendáriz's announcement of the investigation closure—detailed in prior coverage—the focus has shifted to procedural irregularities. Both former Undersecretary Manuel Monsalve and his defense reported no formal notification, learning of the decision via press.
National prosecutor Ángel Valencia clarified: “Procedural actions govern from the moment they are formally fulfilled.” He noted that once communicated, the defense's rights period begins, confirming Armendáriz's continued oversight.
National defender Verónica Encina reinforced: “Notification must be done formally... there has been no formal closure.”
This highlights tensions in ensuring due process, as the prosecution has 10 days to file accusations, paving the way for oral trial preparation after over a year of investigation.
