Historic conviction: Former governor of Áncash sentenced to 19 years for corruption

The former regional governor of Áncash, César Álvarez, has been sentenced to 19 years and 6 months in prison for the crimes of money laundering and criminal association. This sentence issued by the Third National Collegiate Criminal Court marks a milestone in the fight against corruption in Peruvian politics, revealing the involvement of high-ranking figures in criminal activities. During the advance judgment hearing, it was determined that the sentence will be served until September 6, 2039, taking into account the time Álvarez has already spent in prison. In addition, he was fined S/3,864, equivalent to 800 days of fines. Despite the conviction, the former governor was acquitted of other charges, such as collusion and embezzlement, due to lack of sufficient evidence. This case, known as La Centralita, has exposed the complex network of corruption and organized crime that revolved around Álvarez and his inner circle. The operations center located in Chimbote, where actions against opponents were planned and bribes to authorities were carried out, reveals the extent of the criminal practices that permeated regional politics in Áncash. In addition to Álvarez, other figures have been implicated in this corruption network. Martín Belaunde Lossio was sentenced to 4 years and 6 months for criminal association, with a suspension of the sentence for 3 years; while José Luis Cavassa Roncalla received a sentence of 7 years and 6 months for money laundering. On the other hand, former congressman Heriberto Benítez was acquitted of the charges against him. The work of the prosecution in this case has been crucial, investigating a total of 81 people related to La Centralita. The confirmation of the dismissal of 21 individuals highlights the complexity and extent of this corruption network that has been partially dismantled with these sentences. The conviction of César Álvarez and his accomplices is an important step in the fight against corruption in Peru, demonstrating that no one is above the law and that illicit practices in politics will not go unpunished. This case, marked by violence and organized crime, exposes the urgent need to strengthen institutions and promote transparency at all levels of government to effectively combat corruption.