Valdivia's Guarantee Court rejected on Monday preventive prison requested by the Ministry of Security and night house arrest sought by prosecutors for three students from Universidad Austral de Chile, charged with assault on authority against Science Minister Ximena Lincolao. Instead, it ordered national arraigo, no-contact order with the victim, and biweekly check-ins, with a 120-day investigation period. Prosecutors are considering an appeal.
The incident took place on April 8 during the academic year opening ceremony at Universidad Austral de Chile in Valdivia. Minister Lincolao and her entourage were held for two hours due to protests against her. Upon leaving, they faced pushes, thrown objects, and assaults that injured the minister, according to the Policía de Investigaciones (PDI) probe.
On Monday, Valdivia's Guarantee Court formalized charges of assault on authority against the three students. The Ministry of Security, as complainant, sought preventive prison, while prosecutors requested night house arrest. Security Minister Trinidad Steinert had stated they would pursue "the most severe precautionary measures".
The court imposed lighter measures: national arraigo, prohibition from approaching Lincolao, and biweekly signatures. Valdivia chief prosecutor Alejandra Anabalón said they would consider appealing the denial of night arrest, citing the severity of attacking a cabinet minister. She noted the defendants, with no priors, face 541 days to three years in prison or a fine, with further inquiries pending.
Lincolao welcomed the arrests: "I feel sad for the students, as I imagine they regret it today". She called the case "a precedent that can guide" youth on action consequences, deferring to prosecutors and the university. One defendant is María Jesús Madariaga Rojas, former student federation president.
