Federal judges in Argentina are pressing ahead with a series of investigations into former Cabinet chief Manuel Adorni, seeking fresh evidence to determine whether there are irregularities involving his wealth, assets and investments.
While none of the cases has yet reached a conclusion, recent weeks have brought significant developments in investigations into alleged illicit enrichment, incompatible negotiations while in public office and the alleged receipt of improper benefits.
One case centres on a private flight to Punta del Este, Uruguay, taken by Adorni, his family and TV Pública journalist Marcelo Grandío. Prosecutors are seeking to establish who paid for the trip and reconstruct the circumstances surrounding it.
Investigators are also examining the relationship between Adorni and Grandío, along with contracts the journalist is alleged to have held with TV Pública and other state bodies.
The aim is to determine whether any improper benefit was exchanged that could amount to criminal offences.
Separately, in the alleged illicit enrichment case, prosecutor Gerardo Pollicita has ordered Argentina’s Judicial Assistance Directorate for Complex Crime and Organised Crime (DAFI) to prepare a forensic report on the finances of Adorni and his wife.
The review will compare their declared income with the growth of their assets, including a flat in the Caballito neighbourhood of Buenos Aires City, a house in the Indio Cuá gated community in n Exaltación de la Cruz, Buenos Aires Province, and savings held in pesos and US dollars.
If the report finds no irregularities, the case could move towards dismissal. If unexplained discrepancies emerge, prosecutors could seek to summon Adorni for questioning, subject to a decision by Federal Judge Ariel Lijo.
Meanwhile, prosecutors are also examining the finances of Adorni's brother, Francisco, after federal prosecutor Guillermo Marijuan requested further investigative steps to determine whether there is evidence consistent with alleged illicit enrichment.
– TIMES/NA
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