The former president of the Murcia Region, Ramon Luis Valcárcel, confirmed on Thursday that he went to the city of justice to receive formal notification in a case connected to an ongoing oral trial. The matter concerns the Escombreras desalination plant and is described as being in the public interest, according to Valcárcel.
Valcárcel, accompanied by his brother, who acts as his lawyer, spoke to RNE and stated that his health is good and that, during his time leading the organization, his actions were aimed at the public good. He asserted that his conduct has always served the public interest and expressed a readiness to respond in court beyond any doubt.
On March 30, the Education Court No. 1 in Murcia ordered that an oral action proceed against Valcárcel, citing alleged crimes including ongoing fraud and embezzlement related to the lease and procurement arrangements for the Escombreras desalination facility.
The indictment presented by the prosecutor requested prison terms totaling up to 11 years and a half, along with multiple disqualifications from holding public office or other positions of public trust. The prosecutors also sought penalties for the involved charges that could reach 15 years in prison for fraud and embezzlement, in addition to civil liability and a substantial financial penalty intended to reflect the damages alleged by the state.
As part of the case, the defense and the civil parties are seeking compensation for the alleged damages. The regional government of Murcia, acting as a civil claimant, requested that the oral proceeding be opened and that liability be established for the costs tied to the alleged procurement discrepancy, reported at a value of a significant sum within the investigative documentation.
It is noteworthy that, following the court’s order, Valcárcel announced his voluntary departure from the political party with which he had been affiliated and relinquished the honorary chairmanship of the regional party in Murcia. The development marks a notable turn in the public life of a figure who has been prominent in the region for many years.