The judge who acquitted two men falsely accused of the crime of a minor in the Atlantic spoke: 'There is only this pardon left'

On Friday, August 21, 2026, Judge David Guette issued a public statement regarding a long-standing legal case that has haunted the region of Atlántico. The case involves two men who were wrongfully accused of the murder of a nine-year-old girl named Angie Paola Ortega. The judge’s remarks came after a recent judicial ruling that cleared both men of all charges, marking a significant moment in the ongoing pursuit of justice. The tragic incident began in May 2012, when Angie Paola was reported missing. Authorities launched an extensive search, which eventually led to the discovery of her remains in a wooded area near Baranoa, Atlántico. Following this, a criminal investigation was initiated with the aim of identifying those responsible for the crime. During the course of the trial, a woman gave false testimony that linked the two men, Yesid Alberto Lafaurie Pérez and Juan Carlos Jiménez, to the case. This misleading evidence played a central role in their arrest and subsequent detention. In 2022, the Second Criminal Court of Sabanalarga ruled that neither of the two men had any connection to the death of the child. This decision overturned previous convictions and freed both individuals. However, the outcome sparked controversy due to the years they spent in custody. Only Yesid Alberto Lafaurie received formal recognition and compensation for his wrongful imprisonment. Juan Carlos Jiménez, however, did not survive to benefit from the ruling, he died in a fire at the prison where he was held in 2014. The latest developments emerged on July 23, 2026, when the Attorney General's Office released an official statement acknowledging the injustice faced by Yesid Alberto Lafaurie. The office expressed regret over the initial accusations and affirmed that the man was found innocent of the crimes he was charged with. The communication emphasized the need to restore his dignity and reputation, stating that these events were not aligned with the policies of the institution. Judge Guette further explained the circumstances surrounding the false testimony. He described how a woman, hurt by a broken relationship, used the turmoil in the community to accuse her former partner. According to the judge, she claimed to have seen him riding a motorcycle with another woman and pointed him out as a suspect. This fabricated account became a key element in the case against the two men. The case highlights the complexities and potential for error within the judicial system. It underscores the importance of thorough investigations and the necessity of verifying all evidence before making serious accusations. The resolution of this case serves as a reminder of the impact such errors can have on individuals' lives and the broader community. As the legal process continues, the focus remains on ensuring that justice is served not only for the victims but also for those who have been wrongly implicated.