Last update: 5:30 pm, January 26, 2022
Main Points of the Day
- The trial started today with an expert testimony from a forensic psychologist based in the Public Prosecutor’s office in San Pedro Sula. Oscar Aguilar examined the alleged victim and security manager for Inversiones Los Pinares, Santos Hernandez Corea, a few years after the incident on September 7, 2018. Aguilar gave testimony that Hernandez had difficulty recalling memories and appeared to have signs of trauma and depression. The defense made it clear that the results are not scientific and heavily rely on the opinion of the expert that examined him. The report did not involve or mention the accused in the crimes in any way.
- At least three witnesses presented by the prosecution were unable to attend the trial, but in their absence an investigative police report and two testimonies of a witness were read or played (audio) in court. Upon request from the defense, two testimonies of Akbar Reyes Lagos, Inversiones Los Pinares logistics manager and member of the Board of Directors were heard in court. Reyes had previously participated in other hearings. Again, the testimonies contradicted the other witnesses, as well as the two separate versions that Reyes had given in court. Reyes is seen as having a direct interest in criminalizing the water defenders and the community that are resisting the mine and mentioned several of the accused as being present that day on September 7, 2018.
- In the afternoon, the prosecution rests their case. The bulk of the trial is over. Tomorrow, the defense will begin presenting their evidence and it’s possible that the trial could end by Friday. The judges convened all parties for 9 am tomorrow.