The defense of former Interior Minister Andrés Chadwick requested a guarantees hearing in Santiago's Seventh Guarantee Court, claiming obstacles in accessing the investigation file from the Antofagasta Regional Prosecutor's Office. The Public Ministry denied any administrative delays and confirmed document availability since March 2024. They also highlighted prior meetings with lawyers and one scheduled for December 22.
The probe into alleged crimes against humanity during the social outbreak, started in January 2024 by the Antofagasta Regional Prosecutor's Office, has sparked tensions between the Public Ministry and the defense of former Interior Minister Andrés Chadwick.
This week, lawyers Samuel Donoso and Gabriel Campos filed a request with Santiago's Seventh Guarantee Court. In the document, they argued that 'administrative decisions by the Public Ministry have hindered the expeditious delivery of the full and updated copy of the investigation file,' as well as 'inexplicably delayed responses to requests for meetings with the lead prosecutor.' They claimed this prevents Chadwick from properly exercising his right to defense.
In reply, the Prosecutor's Office, led by Juan Castro Bekios, told La Tercera that 'the requested copies of the investigative file have been available for pickup since at least March of this year, a situation known to the defense.' They noted that withdrawal must follow the October 2024 national guidelines: in-person by accredited lawyers, using a new device for digital loading.
On meetings, assigned prosecutor Cristian Aguilar has held at least three with Chadwick's counsel, with a fourth set for Monday, December 22. The office rejected any hindrances, stating: 'The Antofagasta Regional Prosecutor's Office reiterates its commitment to due process and respect for all guarantees afforded to those under criminal investigation.'
This exchange highlights scrutiny in the case, focused on 2019 social outbreak events.
