Private prosecution counsel discussed the case following the death of Manuela Chavera Verónica Guerrero. The spokesperson indicated confidence that a jury may be involved, noting it is a factor that could influence how the case proceeds given the severity of the alleged offenses. The defense has criticized the pretrial stage and argued against shifting to a jury trial at this point.
On Tuesday in Zafra, Eugenio Delgado appeared for the first time as the subject of criminal proceedings that could move toward a jury trial. Each side presented its legal position, reviewed prior actions, and identified the tests and steps needed to advance the investigation. The judge will decide whether to continue with the case and move to the next procedural phase.
Concerning the events of the night of 5 July 2016 at the monastery, the family’s attorney asserted a clear position and emphasized that the motive behind the crime involved sexual offenses. They argued that the incident encompassed murder following a crime against sexual freedom, unlawful detention, and subsequent psychological and moral harm to the victim’s sister, Emilia, and their parents.
According to the plaintiff’s side, there is considerable evidence supporting the sexual assault charge, though the attorney did not delve into specifics. The spokesperson asserted that the case includes more than merely serious allegations and symptoms; there exists substantial, scientific, and objective proof. The remarks suggested the charges are interconnected and that key details would be disclosed in court.
The overall aim throughout has been to establish a clear crime pattern and to prevent any argument that the events could be categorized as a simple misdemeanor. The defense team has consistently argued that the charges should reflect the more serious nature of the alleged acts.
Defense attorney José Antonio Carrasco confirmed that the early claim was that the death resulted from an accidental impact to the neck. With respect to the accusation of crimes against sexual freedom, he noted that there has been no rational indication within the procedure that such acts occurred. He stated that the defense would argue the life termination, if it occurred, requires careful examination, and he added that there is no consistent scientific basis or supporting medical or international legal reports that proves those specific charges at this stage.
Delgado remains composed about his situation, maintaining his account of events. He has been held in temporary detention since 20 September 2020.