Justice sends police captain accused of attempted femicide to prison

A police captain accused of attempting to kill his wife will spend four months in pretrial detention, although both sides have appealed the court’s decision.

The Cochabamba prosecutor’s office argued that the case involved procedural risks and possible obstruction of the investigation. It also said authorities needed to protect the alleged victim. The judge ordered Cristian U.C. to remain in the Arani detention facility while the investigation continues.

According to the woman’s complaint, the alleged attacks became increasingly frequent. She said she had endured at least seven episodes of violence and received death threats intended to force her to withdraw her complaint.

The victim and her legal team are seeking a transfer to a higher-security prison, such as San Pedro prison in Cochabamba, rather than the Arani facility. They appealed the ruling. Lawyers for the accused also filed an appeal, asking that the police officer defend himself while free.