Judge Eleonora Verón sentenced Aníbal Cabaña to life imprisonment on Friday, following his conviction by a jury for the femicide of Natalia Ocampo and the homicide of César Valenzuela in Rosario. This case marks the first time a jury trial has been utilized in the city’s judicial history, with the sentence determined during a formal cesura hearing at the Centro de Justicia Penal.
How does the jury trial system function in Santa Fe?
The jury trial model in Santa Fe separates the determination of guilt from the sentencing phase. According to the provincial judicial framework, a group of twelve citizens—who are neither judges nor lawyers—must reach a consensus on whether the accused is guilty or innocent. Once a guilty verdict is returned, the trial moves to a “cesura hearing,” where a professional judge like Verón determines the specific length and conditions of the prison sentence. This process is reserved for serious criminal offenses under local legislation.
Did you know? In a jury trial, the jury’s only responsibility is to decide if the evidence proves the defendant committed the crime. They do not decide on the severity of the punishment; that remains the sole authority of the presiding judge.
What were the legal charges against Aníbal Cabaña?
The court found Cabaña guilty of double-qualified homicide, illegal possession of a firearm, and concealment, as the weapon used—a Bersa 9 mm—had its serial number filed off. Official court records state the crimes occurred on April 6, 2025, at a residence on Uruguay street. Prosecutors established that Cabaña, who was in the process of divorcing Ocampo, entered the property using stolen keys and executed eight shots, killing both Ocampo and her partner, Valenzuela.
Why is this case a precedent for gender-based violence?
The prosecution highlighted a long history of domestic abuse preceding the murders. According to the fiscal report, Ocampo had been filing complaints against Cabaña since 2010, and a restraining order had been issued just days before the April 2025 attack. By framing the 18-year relationship within a context of systemic gender-based violence, the prosecution successfully sought the maximum penalty under the law, illustrating how past protective measures—like restraining orders—are evaluated in modern judicial proceedings.
Comparison: Bench Trials vs. Jury Trials
| Feature | Traditional Bench Trial | Jury Trial |
|---|---|---|
| Decision Maker | Professional Judge | 12 Citizens |
| Scope | All criminal cases | Serious crimes |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the jury decide the length of the sentence? No. In the Santa Fe system, the jury only determines guilt or innocence. The judge sets the sentence in a separate hearing.
- Was this the first jury trial in Argentina? No, but it was the first of its kind in the history of Rosario.
- What happens if the jury cannot agree? If a jury fails to reach a unanimous or required consensus, a mistrial may be declared, potentially leading to a new trial with a different jury.
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