The defense of Begoña Gómez has requested Judge Juan Carlos Peinado to postpone the preliminary hearing of June 9, a key date within the case in which alleged crimes of influence peddling, business corruption, embezzlement, and misappropriation are being investigated.
Gómez's lawyer, Antonio Camacho, alleges that he cannot attend because it coincides with other judicial declarations previously scheduled in another court, in addition to an oral trial scheduled from June 10.
Judge's Warning
Judge Peinado has warned that the appearance of Begoña Gómez, Juan Carlos Barrabés, and Cristina Álvarez is mandatory, under penalty of being brought by force if they do not attend.
The magistrate justifies this decision by the seriousness of the investigated crimes and the risk that the accused may try to evade the action of Justice, in addition to not ruling out the adoption of precautionary measures during the hearing.
The UCO Introduces Nuances in the Investigation
The latest report from the Central Operational Unit (UCO) of the Civil Guard indicates that the analyzed bank movements of Begoña Gómez "are consistent with the development of her professional activity", partially moving away from the hypothesis of personal enrichment.
This report questions part of the judge's initial line of argument regarding the solicitation of funds from companies for personal gain.
Debate on Opening Oral Trial
The hearing on June 9 aims to decide whether to open an oral trial by jury tribunal, as proposed by the magistrate.
Peinado recalls that the law allows the defense to waive this phase, but only if there is a unanimous decision from all the accused.