María Fernanda Case: Witnesses reveal request to delete phone, use of abortive drugs

The trial for the adults involved in the murder of María Fernanda Benítez has advanced with new witness testimonies, shedding light on crucial aspects of the case. One witness reported being contacted by an accused individual shortly after Benítez's disappearance, seeking instructions on how to delete data from a cell phone. The witness stated that Mikhaela Rolón Melgarejo asked for steps to block or erase the phone, though the witness could not confirm if the action was ultimately taken.

Further complicating the case, a forensic doctor testified about medications seized during the investigation. Dr. Jorge Río confirmed that several drugs mentioned in conversations and found during raids on a pharmacy owned by an accused require a prescription. Crucially, he stated that some of these medications have the capacity to induce abortions in women.

Prosecutors believe these testimonies significantly bolster their case. "What the prosecution considers is that this strengthens the accusation, which is based on technical reports and is now supported by the declaration of the doctor who intervened," stated prosecutor Fermín Segovia. The defense, however, raised concerns about the number of witnesses called by the prosecution, leading the court to grant a reasonable period for the defense to prepare for interrogations.

The prosecution has presented approximately 15 witnesses so far, exceeding initial expectations. While the defense sought to delay proceedings, the court's decision aims to balance the need for thorough preparation with the urgency of moving the trial forward. The testimonies regarding the phone data deletion and the abortifacient drugs are central to the prosecution's theory of the crime.