The state government of Querétaro has delivered new facilities at the San Juan del Río Penitentiary Center No. 3, as part of an effort to improve the conditions of inmates and enhance security at the facilities. Mauricio Kuri, governor of Querétaro, led the inauguration of the new facilities, which include two criminal oral hearing rooms equipped with audio and video technology to ensure the recording and verifiability of hearings.
The new criminal oral hearing rooms will represent an annual savings of 4.5 million pesos in transfers and human resources, as currently around 4,000 transfers are made each year, each requiring at least four procedural police officers. This will also allow for a more efficient operation of criminal judges by eliminating the need for transfers.
In addition to the hearing rooms, the works included offices for judges, an administrative area, spaces for witnesses, a recording room, reception, service annex, and restrooms, as well as renovations in the cafeteria and gym, an area for detainees, expansion of customs, and rehabilitation of the parking lot. Technology was also acquired to reinforce the inspection of visitors and suppliers at the entries and exits.
In the words of Governor Kuri, "it is important to invest in these places to ensure tranquility, avoid risks of escapes or riots, and maintain penitentiary centers in good condition." The new facilities will also improve risk prevention, optimize the management of human resources for the penitentiary staff, and strengthen operational capabilities to facilitate fair trials for individuals in criminal proceedings.
