Former La Plata Mayor Garro Indicted in Illegal Housing Development Corruption Case

Former La Plata mayor Julio Garro faces a formal indictment in a corruption case concerning illegal housing developments. Prosecutor Juan Menucci is leading the investigation into allegations of illicit enrichment, fraudulent administration against the public administration, abuse of authority, and violation of public official duties. The case also includes potential environmental impact from the developments.

Garro, who served as mayor between 2015 and 2023, has been notified of the charges. Several former officials from his administration have also been notified, including Oscar Negrelli, former secretary of Coordination; María José Botta, former head of Planning; and Marcela Rogg, former general director of Planning. More officials are expected to be notified in the coming days.

The case originated from a complaint filed by the current municipal administration, led by Julio Alak. Initially investigated by prosecutor Juan Cruz Condomí Alcorta, the case was reassigned to Menucci after Alcorta was recused by Judge Marcela Garmendia due to alleged delays and inaction. The complaint, signed by municipal Justice Secretary Marina Mongiardino, details "a series of extremely serious irregularities" that allegedly disregarded provincial government orders against authorizing urban developments without proper legal and technical validation.

Mongiardino's filing points to harm to both public funds and the residents of La Plata. Approximately 450 illegal housing lots are involved across various neighborhoods, with about 250 of them deemed unregularizable. The indictment marks a significant legal challenge for the former mayor and his administration.