High-Profile Corruption Cases Fall Apart in Mexico
High-Profile Corruption Cases Fall Apart in Mexico
By ADRIANA GOMEZ LICON and MARK STEVENSON Associated Press
MEXICO CITY April 24, 2013 (AP)
In just one week, some of Mexico's most high-profile corruption cases have unraveled on thin or made-up evidence, reinforcing long-held notions that the Attorney General's Office is more focused on political vendettas or favors than justice.
Two of the cases against public servants, a former drug czar and a former No. 2 in the Defense Department accused of links to drug cartels, were thrown out within days last week. In one, the judge determined that witness testimonies were false, and the other case dissolved because prosecutors couldn't find evidence to support the charges.
Many blamed the failed prosecutions on the administration of former President Felipe Calderon, which prepared the cases.
Experts say the failed prosecutions are the product of a justice system dominated by political interests, and hindered by questionable police work and deficiencies in organization. Some cases lose credibility because they are deemed to involve political payback or favors, while others are undermined by shoddy investigations done in the heat of the moment.
More:
http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/high-profile-corruption-cases-fall-mexico-19028275#.UXd-nOoo7JV
