Three Police Officers to Stand Trial for Assault During Arrest

Three active police officers are heading to trial after being accused of exceeding their authority during a 2023 arrest in northern Guayaquil. The criminal proceedings will investigate alleged physical assaults that occurred while the officers were detaining a citizen.

The judicial system has ordered a trial for the three members of the National Police. They face charges of alleged overreach in executing an act of service, compounded by the crime of injury. A judge in Guayaquil issued this decision following the prosecution's indictment.

The case began on May 21, 2023, when officers stopped a man in Guayaquil to execute a child support warrant. After the initial detention, the man was taken to a police community unit. According to the victim's family, an altercation occurred there regarding the return of personal belongings.

Judicial investigation indicates the detainee suffered physical assaults while in custody and handcuffed. Medical reports confirmed injuries to his left eye, chest, and ribs, requiring intensive care and resulting in a 31-day physical incapacity. Prosecutors presented evidence including medical histories, police reports, and audiovisual recordings, which the judge deemed sufficient for trial.