Alberto Martín Del Valle arrested after 14 years as a fugitive

Alberto Martín Del Valle, 56, has been arrested in Florencio Varela after remaining a fugitive for 14 years. He is accused of sexually abusing his stepdaughter when she was 11 years old, causing pregnancy, and attempting to force a clandestine abortion.

A legal battle has emerged regarding the statute of limitations. Del Valle’s defense has filed a habeas corpus petition for his immediate release, arguing that the sexual abuse charges expired in 2022, citing a resolution by Judge Claudia Olivera. While that decision has been appealed, the defense maintains his detention is illegitimate.

In response, the victim’s sister and lawyer, Yamila Segovia, stated that the legal team is prepared to fight the arguments for dismissal. She emphasized the need for justice and social support to prevent impunity. Public Ministry sources noted that even if the habeas corpus is granted regarding the abuse charges, Del Valle could remain in custody due to separate charges involving the failure to fulfill family assistance duties.