Mariano Peluffo, renowned television host and producer, gave a key statement in the trial against Claudio Contardi, Julieta Prandi's former partner, who is accused of the crimes of aggravated sexual abuse with carnal access, economic violence, and psychological subjugation.
His testimony, based on years of working together with the model and actress, provided crucial elements to reconstruct the suffering that, according to the complaint, Prandi experienced during two decades of relationship.
During an extensive hearing, Peluffo explained how he witnessed a gradual process of revelations. "Juli told me in layers, like an onion being peeled," he told the court.
Peluffo also focused on the work isolation that, according to his account, his colleague suffered: "He wanted to destroy exclusively one of the only jobs she had left," he said regarding the radio show they shared.
He explained that this dynamic of control manifested itself in multiple aspects of Prandi's daily life. For example, she did not know how to drive, she traveled only in cars with drivers provided by her then-partner, and she did not have autonomy to organize her schedule without supervision.
Mariano Peluffo y Julieta Prandi en el juicio
In addition, the host highlighted Prandi's role as a mother. "You can see the love of that mother, because they're loving kids, but also kids who don't want to have a relationship with their father or see him ever again," he said, referring to the psychological evaluations carried out on the couple's children, who expressed their desire not to have contact with Contardi again.
"I hope this ends well, that justice is served. Because this can happen to anyone," Peluffo concluded, visibly moved after his intervention in the judicial process.
The trial continues with the testimony of new witnesses, including psychologists and psychiatrists proposed by the prosecution, who will analyze the indicators of trauma suffered by the victim. Meanwhile, Contardi's defense is trying to dismantle the accusation, relying on testimonies such as that of the security guard of the gated community where the couple lived, who allegedly stated that Julieta could enter and leave freely.
