Paraguay: Loan Shark's Family Accused of Laundering Money, Case Stalled for Two Years

A money laundering case against the family of alleged Paraguayan loan shark Ramón González Daher remains stalled two years after its initial filing, with the Supreme Court of Justice yet to resolve key procedural issues. The accusations target Delcia Karjallo, Fernando González Karjallo, and Carolina González; the wife, son, and daughter-in-law of the convicted usurer.

The Public Prosecutor's Office filed the charges on July 3, 2024, alleging that the family introduced funds obtained through usury into the legal financial system. Ramón González Daher himself was previously sentenced to 15 years in prison for usury. The case is currently pending a preliminary hearing, which determines if the defendants will face a public trial.

Recent decisions by the Criminal Chamber of the Supreme Court, including the confirmation of Judge Agustín Lovera Cañete, have integrated the court. However, the process is further complicated by defense challenges regarding the designation of a specialized judge for economic crimes. Until a judge is confirmed to preside over the case, the preliminary hearing cannot proceed, effectively delaying any further substantive legal action against the González Daher clan.