Hearing suspended over alleged beating of accused in Santiago

A court session in Santiago was halted when the accused, Luis David Grasal, presented himself with visible bruises and bleeding, which his defense claims were inflicted by a prison guard. The Second Chamber of the Criminal Chamber of the Judicial District of Santiago ordered Grasal's emergency transfer to a hospital for treatment and assessment of his injuries, under the supervision of the Public Ministry.

Defense attorney Mayobanex Reyes denounced the incident as a "grave abuse of power," stating that Grasal was beaten by a guard while in custody at the Santiago Judicial Palace jail. Grasal himself indicated that the assault occurred after a verbal exchange where he said something that offended the guard. His lawyer is demanding that security camera footage be preserved, the officers on duty identified, and a medical-legal evaluation of Grasal be conducted.

Reyes emphasized that violence should not be part of the justice system, stating, "Agents must protect detainees, not punish them." As of now, the authorities responsible for inmate custody and security have not provided an official account of the alleged abuse or the court's decision. The hearing has been rescheduled for September 14, pending Grasal's recovery. Grasal is facing charges for allegedly seducing a 15-year-old adolescent.

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La violencia no puede formar parte de la justicia. Los agentes deben proteger a los detenidos, no castigarlos