The Peruvian Judiciary on Friday ruled against an appeal filed by former President Ollanta Humala (2011-2016) and wife Nadine Heredia to revoke the 18-month preventive detention order on them.
As is known, Humala and Heredia have
been behind bars since July 14 as they await trial for money laundering charges related to corruption-tainted Odebrecht.
Judges Cesar Sahuanay Calsin, Ivan Quispe Aucca and Jessica Leon Yarango ratified the 18-month pre-trial detention order in a 57-page resolution.
The decision was grounded on the fact that Humala and Heredia face "aggravated" money laundering charges, defined by Peruvian legislation as money laundering offences committed either by taking advantage of one's position (as public, real estate, financial, banking or stock agent) or as part of a criminal organization.
"Their actions would have taken place within the context of a criminal organization that goes beyond national borders," the judges indicated.
The ex-leader and his wife
were ordered to spend up to 18 months in jail starting July 13 following a preventive detention request previously submitted by German Juarez, Prosecutor for Money Laundering Cases.
In addition, the remainder of said resources would have been used to purchase a vehicle and a property, which former First Lady Nadine Heredia had allegedly justified by forging professional services contracts with a number of companies.
Charges are backed by the statements of former Odebrecht executives Jorge Barata and Marcelo Odebrecht, as well as bank statements matching Heredia's incriminating journals.
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