AFA mansion case takes controversial turn, returns to Campana court

In a controversial turn, Argentina's Federal Criminal Cassation Chamber has ruled that the case involving a lavish mansion in Pilar, allegedly linked to the Argentine Football Association (AFA), must return to the jurisdiction of Campana. This decision aligns with the wishes of the investigated parties, Luciano Pantano and Ana Conte, who are accused of acting as fronts for AFA officials.

Pantano, a self-employed worker, had a significant bank debt at the time of the initial complaint, while his mother, Conte, is a retiree who received emergency family income during the pandemic. Both are listed as owners of the opulent mansion, which reportedly features its own helipad. The ruling was not unanimous, with judges Mariano Borinsky and Diego Barroetaveña forming the majority, while Alejandro Slokar dissented.

The resolution directs the case to the San Martín Chamber, which had previously ordered it sent to the Campana court. This means the referral to the Chamber is temporary, with the ultimate decision returning the case to the court favored by the accused. Concerns have been raised about Judge Barroetaveña's involvement, as he previously held a position within the AFA's Ethics Tribunal until last November.

The case, which has expanded over months to include companies associated with the AFA, will now be handled by Judge Adrián González Charvay of Campana. He presided over the case before the dispute over jurisdiction began. Prosecutor Mario Villar, who opposed the return to Campana, may seek an extraordinary appeal to the Supreme Court, though his path is challenging as the decision is not a final sentence. The case has navigated a judicial labyrinth since its start eight months ago, moving from Comodoro Py to Penal Economic, then to Campana, back to Penal Economic, and now returning to Campana.