BTN News: A sergeant from the Puerto Rico Police Department has found himself in serious legal trouble after being accused of sexually assaulting his ex-partner. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community, unfolded on June 9th when the ex-partner of Sergeant Luis Carrero Román filed a formal complaint against him. According to the findings from the Gender Violence and Juvenile Affairs Division of the Criminal Investigations Corps (CIC) in Aguadilla, the sergeant allegedly grabbed his ex-partner by force and sexually assaulted her. This disturbing event has not only led to criminal charges but also prompted immediate disciplinary action from the police department, casting a shadow over the integrity of the force.
After a thorough investigation by the CIC, crucial evidence was presented to the prosecutor Eileen Quintana González from the Department of Justice. Based on this evidence, it was determined that Carrero Román would face charges under Article 3.5 of Law 54, which deals specifically with marital sexual assault. This law is a critical component in Puerto Rico’s legal framework to combat domestic violence and protect the rights of victims. The gravity of the charges reflects the severity of the alleged actions and underscores the commitment of the legal system to address such offenses.
The case took a significant turn when Judge Orlando Avilés Santiago, presiding over the Aguadilla Tribunal, found probable cause to move forward with the charges. A bail of $10,000 was set for Carrero Román, marking a crucial step in the judicial process. The determination of probable cause is a key moment in any criminal case, as it signals that there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. This decision has led to further repercussions for Carrero Román, particularly within the police department.
In response to the legal developments, Police Commissioner Antonio López Figueroa made the decision to suspend Carrero Román from his duties. This suspension, which includes both employment and salary, is a direct consequence of the charges filed against him. Carrero Román was assigned to the Aguadilla area, where he was part of the local law enforcement team. However, the serious nature of the allegations and the subsequent judicial determination have necessitated this immediate suspension, pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.
The investigation into this case was led by Sergeant MarÃa E. Delgado Ortiz of the Gender Violence and Juvenile Affairs Division at the CIC in Aguadilla. Under the supervision of Lieutenant Katherin Hernández Pérez, the team worked meticulously to gather the necessary evidence and ensure that the case was handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Their efforts highlight the critical role of specialized divisions within the police force in addressing sensitive and serious allegations such as this one.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability within law enforcement, especially in cases involving domestic and sexual violence. The legal and disciplinary actions taken against Carrero Román reflect a broader commitment to upholding the law and protecting the rights of victims, regardless of the accused’s position or rank. As the case moves forward, it will undoubtedly be closely watched, both by the public and by those within the legal and law enforcement communities, as it may set important precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future.
In conclusion, the allegations against Sergeant Luis Carrero Román have led to significant legal and professional consequences, illustrating the serious nature of the charges. The actions taken by the Department of Justice and the Police Department underscore the commitment to addressing such incidents with the gravity they deserve. As the judicial process continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice is served and the rights of the victim are upheld.
