Spanish judge faces disciplinary probe over investigation into PM's wife

Spain's judicial watchdog has initiated disciplinary proceedings against the judge presiding over the corruption investigation into Begoña Gómez, the wife of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Judge Juan Carlos Peinado ordered Gómez to stand trial for corruption charges and prohibited her from leaving the country, two years into his investigation. In his ruling, Peinado questioned the adequacy of the police officers assigned to protect Gómez, suggesting they might facilitate her escape. This assertion drew sharp criticism from police leadership, who deemed it "unjustified" and emphasized the "political neutrality" and "absolute impartiality" of their officers. The General Council of the Judiciary (CGPJ) deemed Peinado's remarks potentially a "serious lack of consideration" for police officials and launched an internal review. Such a "serious" offense could result in a fine of up to 6,000 euros. The investigation into Gómez is one of several judicial cases affecting Sánchez's inner circle and threatening his government's stability. In April, Peinado formally accused Gómez of embezzlement, influence peddling, corruption, and misappropriation of funds, stemming from a 2024 probe into whether she used her position for private gain during her time at the Complutense University of Madrid. Gómez has consistently denied any wrongdoing, while Sánchez maintains the accusations are politically motivated attempts to destabilize his government. Justice Minister Félix Bolaños criticized the "absolutely anomalous" case on Monday, stating it was "damaging the image of justice" and should have been dismissed from the outset due to Peinado's "incomprehensible rulings." Judge Peinado, who is set to retire in September, has summoned Gómez to surrender her passport on Wednesday. Sánchez is scheduled to address the Congress of Deputies on the same day regarding the judicial processes impacting his administration and the Socialist Party.

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those agents at a certain moment can, either on their own initiative or following orders from their hierarchical superiors, be those who collaborate in the action or actions carried out to facilitate that escape.