A Spanish court has publicly acknowledged significant failings within the justice system after absolving three individuals accused of wrongdoing in a case dating back over 27 years. The case, known as Parc Central, involved allegations of prevarication and influence peddling.
Years of Delay
The Tribunal of the Audiencia of Tarragona stated that “there are no adjectives” sufficient to describe the situation of the accused, who are protected by the presumption of innocence, given the extraordinary length of the proceedings. The court began hearing the case in September 2024, but the investigation phase had already spanned more than fifteen years, followed by an equally lengthy intermediate phase.
The judges lamented the delay, stating that terms like “desmesurado, irracional, ilógico” – immeasurable, irrational, illogical – were insufficient to capture the extent of the systemic failures. The case file itself comprised over 30,000 pages.
The Charges and the Outcome
The three defendants, including former Tarragona Urban Planning Councilor Àngel Fernández, were accused of continuous offenses of influence peddling, prevarication, and money laundering. The case centered on the sale of land where the Eroski-owned Parc Central shopping center was subsequently built. However, the court found insufficient evidence to convict them, determining that the alleged irregularities were not criminally relevant.
The court’s decision underscores a growing concern regarding delays within the Spanish legal system, as highlighted in a related report concerning delays in judging dismissals, debts, and administrative actions.
What Happens Next?
While the acquittal of the three individuals marks the end of their legal ordeal, the case could prompt further scrutiny of judicial processes in Spain. It is possible that calls for reform will intensify, focusing on streamlining investigations and accelerating trials. The court’s unusually candid assessment may also encourage other judges to openly acknowledge systemic issues within the legal framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the accusations against the defendants?
The defendants were accused of continuous offenses of influence peddling, prevarication, and money laundering related to the development and management of the Parc Central shopping center.
How long did the legal process take?
The legal process began in 1997 and concluded with a trial in September 2024, spanning over 27 years. The investigation phase alone lasted more than fifteen years.
What did the court say about the delays?
The court stated that “there are no adjectives” sufficient to describe the situation and that the process had been “desmesurado, irracional, ilógico” – immeasurable, irrational, and illogical – indicating a failure of the entire judicial system.
Does this case signal a broader problem with the Spanish justice system, and what might be done to address it?
