The Oversight Commission of the National Assembly launched an investigation on June 16, 2025 into judges and prosecutors who allegedly released suspects of serious crimes. The trigger was the controversial release from prison of alleged kidnappers of a businesswoman in Guayaquil. Minister of the Interior John Reimberg appeared in Quito and reported the existence of a judicial "revolving door" that allows the release of individuals accused of murder, extortion, and kidnapping. The official ironically stated that defendants are released for "presenting a water bill."
Reimberg revealed that more than 270 people are under house arrest ordered by judges, which forces the National Police to assign 800 officers to monitor those involved, even in high-risk areas. "I see no problem in showing the faces of those who release criminals", he declared, calling for transparency in the judiciary. The Ministry of the Interior requested the names of prosecutors and judges involved in these decisions from the Judicial Council and the Office of the Attorney General. The goal is for the responsible officials to publicly answer for their rulings.
Reimberg's proposal sparked debate but received support among sectors demanding responsibility and ethics in the judicial system. The minister insisted that if these judges consider their decisions correct, they must be willing to "face the public" for them. Criticism also targets the current legislation, which allows procedural maneuvers to delay sanctions. The lack of speed in disciplinary proceedings worsens impunity.
