Seven individuals involved in the attack on Ciro Gómez Leyva accepted their guilt.

Seven of the accused in the attack against journalist Ciro Gómez Leyva requested to undergo the abbreviated procedure during a recent hearing, aiming to reduce their sentences without facing a prolonged trial.

The strategy, supported by the authorities, would allow the case to be closed without fully clarifying the facts or identifying the masterminds.

They did so during a recent hearing, where they requested to undergo the abbreviated procedure.

It was for the attack on December 15, 2022, when armed individuals fired at the journalist's vehicle in Mexico City.

Five of the accused face charges of attempted murder. Two more are charged with criminal association.  All seek to reduce their sentences through the abbreviated procedure.

They seek lesser punishments in exchange for judicial cooperation

The abbreviated procedure includes a sentence reduction if criminal responsibility is admitted. The detainees assured they are willing to cooperate with the authorities. During the hearing, they stated that their involvement has already been acknowledged, but they clarified that they would not provide more information. Their sole objective is to obtain a lesser sentence.

The strategy allows the case to be closed without facing a long trial or exposing more details. The authorities accept this procedural route as a way to expedite the resolution.

However, there is a risk that the case will be closed without fully clarifying the facts.

They accept guilt but cover up for the masterminds

It was also revealed that Armando Escárcega, alias "El Patrón," requested the same procedural benefit. He is identified as the leader of the group responsible for the attack.

The authorities have shown special interest in his case, as he could reveal crucial information about the authorship of the attack. His request is still under evaluation.

Key data about the authorship of the attack could come to light.

It is expected that his cooperation will determine if he is granted the sentence reduction. So far, the authorities consider that he has not yet revealed everything he knows.

Impunity disguised as procedural justice

Mexico is one of the most dangerous countries for practicing journalism, and the attack against Gómez Leyva confirmed it. Although several are detained, doubts persist.

Justice remains incomplete without identifying the masterminds.

The acceptance of guilt by the strikers doesn't solve the core of the problem. It only concludes a judicial process, without addressing the true culprits.

This legal strategy avoids getting to the heart of the matter. The truth is hidden under agreements, and justice is diluted in technicalities.