Judge Guadalupe Rocha Flores sentenced Pedro Cortés and Diego Mendoza for their involvement in the disappearance of 21 people in Pantelhó on July 26, 2021. Before the verdict, the judge removed the lawyers chosen by the defendants and appointed public defenders. The hearings were held virtually, without access for family members and witnesses.
Pedro Cortés, originally from Chitmucum, is recognized for his work in community conflict reconciliation and his dedication as a catechist. Diego Mendoza, a member of an evangelical church, has actively participated in reconciliation processes in Pantelhó.
Both were appointed in August 2021 as part of the Government Council, elected in a popular assembly. The accusations indicate that, along with priest Marcelo Pérez, they allegedly participated in the detention and disappearance of the individuals.
During the trial, testimonies were presented that accuse the detainees, but the defendants maintained their private lawyers to collaborate with the public defenders. However, their evidence of innocence was not considered in the process.
The disappearances occurred in the context of community conflicts and clashes with criminal groups. The population urged the authorities to detain the alleged perpetrators, resulting in the disappearance of the 21 individuals. Despite the testimonies and evidence presented, the conviction was issued in February.
Marcelo Pérez, Pedro Cortés, and Diego Mendoza have denied their participation in the events and presented evidence indicating that they were not present at the site of the disappearance. The judge decided to conduct the trial virtually, which limited the defendants' access to adequate defense.
The reconciliation efforts of Pedro Cortés and Diego Mendoza in their communities contrast with the accusations against them. Although they have sought to prove their innocence, the sentence issued by Judge Rocha Flores finds them guilty of the charges in a case that continues to generate controversy in Pantelhó.
