Paraguay: Former governorate official sentenced to two years for sexual harassment

A former official in Paraguay's Alto Paraná Governorate has been sentenced to two years in prison for sexual harassment. Gaspar Reinaldo Sánchez Canale, who previously served as Secretary of Planning, was convicted following a nearly five-year legal process.

The incident occurred on November 22, 2021, within the Governorate building. The accuser, a young female employee seconded to the Governorate, reported that Sánchez Canale forcibly grabbed her by the arm and waist, pressing her against his body. She managed to break free by pushing him away.

Later that day, when the victim entered an office for documents, Sánchez Canale allegedly locked the door and attacked her, attempting to grope her. She again escaped by pushing him. The victim reported the assault immediately, but the Public Ministry took three years to file charges and nearly two more years to formulate the accusation.

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if the Tribunal applied the maximum penalty for this punishable act, it is only two years in prison, it remained with suspension of the execution of the penalty.

The trial involved testimony from witnesses, professionals, psychologists, the victim, and the defendant. The sentencing tribunal comprised judges Flavia Recalde, Evangelina Villalba, and Lourdes Morínigo. The Public Prosecutor was represented by Julia González, and the victim's legal representation was handled by Mauro Barreto.

While the court imposed the maximum penalty for the offense, the sentence was suspended. Sánchez Canale is required to pay the victim 20 million Paraguayan guaraníes as compensation. The specific conditions for the suspended sentence will be detailed in the full ruling.

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the condemned must also pay an economic compensation of G. 20 million to the victim.