Costa Rican judicial association reports threats against three judges

The Costa Rican Association of the Judiciary (Acojud) has reported to the Corte Plena that three penal execution judges are currently on medical leave due to security risks, threats, and pressures. The affected officials include two judges from Alajuela and one from Cartago.

Mario Rodríguez, a judge and board member of Acojud, expressed concern regarding the lack of security and recent attacks on the judicial profession. He criticized the tendency to treat these incidents as common crimes rather than attacks related to judicial functions. Additionally, Magistrate Patricia Solano highlighted the restrictions judges face when entering penitentiary centers.

Acojud is calling for a comprehensive review of security protocols within a three-month period. They have proposed the creation of a specialized task force involving the Judiciary, the Judicial Investigation Department (OIJ), and the Public Ministry to address safety concerns in high-risk areas and to defend judicial independence against external attacks.