Biochemist detained in Esquel for allegedly imprisoning family

Miguel Edgardo Battista, a 71-year-old biochemist, has been detained in Esquel, Chubut, following allegations that he held his partner and three children captive in their home. The investigation began on October 10 after neighbors reported extreme isolation and a lack of social contact involving the minors.

A judicial raid conducted on October 22, led by prosecutor Cecilia Bagnato, resulted in the rescue of the family after cries for help were heard from inside the residence. The victims, including two minors, were found confined in different areas of the house. The prosecution has charged Battista with aggravated abandonment of a person and unlawful deprivation of liberty, stating the actions likely harmed the victims' physical and psychological health.

Battista's defense attorney, Daniel Sandoval, claims the defendant had socially isolated himself following previous reports of extortion and physical assault in Trevelin. The attorney stated that Battista had moved to Esquel to establish a medicinal substance laboratory. Battista remains in preventive detention for ten days while the investigation continues.