Prosecution seeks over 5 years in prison for woman who ran over and killed guard in Trujillo

The wheels of justice are grinding slowly but surely in Trujillo, where a tragic incident has led to serious charges against a local driver. The Second Provincial Criminal Prosecutor's Office of Flagrant Criminal Offenses of La Libertad has requested a prison sentence of 5 years and 4 months for Maricsa Alfaro Cerna, 32, who was responsible for the death of security guard Juan Martínez Torres, 54, in an accident that has shaken the community.

This case highlights the severe consequences of reckless driving, particularly when combined with alcohol. The prosecutor, Joan Balladares, has not only sought imprisonment but also a substantial civil reparation of S/329,280 for the victim's grieving family. Furthermore, the request for a permanent ban on driving underscores the gravity with which authorities are treating this offense, aiming to prevent future tragedies.

Initially, the case was classified as negligent injury, but the subsequent death of Mr. Martínez, who succumbed to his injuries after five days in intensive care, prompted a reclassification to culpable homicide. This shift reflects the devastating outcome of Alfaro's actions. Surveillance footage captured the moment of impact, and reports suggest Alfaro acknowledged her responsibility early on. Despite the severity, Alfaro was released under restricted appearance, a decision that has understandably drawn scrutiny given the circumstances.

Compounding the tragedy are the revelations that Alfaro was allegedly intoxicated at the time of the crash, with a blood alcohol level nearly four times the legal limit. Adding to her legal woes, her driver's license had reportedly been expired since 2022. From our vantage point at La República, this case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the need for strict enforcement of traffic laws to protect innocent lives. While the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on seeking justice for Juan Martínez Torres and his family.