Panama Community Board Rep Sent to House Arrest for Embezzlement

Sandra Jiménez, a representative for the David Centro Community Board in Chiriquí, Panama, is now under house arrest. The Superior Court of Appeals revoked her previous travel ban on Thursday, imposing the stricter measure for alleged aggravated embezzlement.

Jiménez assumed her role after the primary representative, Jorge Montenegro Vallarino, was detained in connection with an investigation into alleged patrimonial damage and embezzlement. The court's decision came after an appeal hearing where magistrates considered the gravity of the alleged crime and the risk of Jiménez interfering with evidence or posing a danger to the community.

The case originated from an audit by the General Comptroller's Office. The audit reportedly uncovered alleged misappropriation of funds designated for social interest programs within the David cabecera Community Board. The period under scrutiny spans from 2019 to 2024.

The court warned Jiménez that any violation of her house arrest could lead to provisional detention. The Public Ministry was represented by prosecutor Alia Suleimán, while Miguel Herrera acted as the defense attorney.