José Luis Espert faces indictment request in money laundering probe

Argentine prosecutors have requested the indictment of former national deputy José Luis Espert in a money laundering investigation. The request, filed by prosecutor Fernando Domínguez, involves a US$ 200,000 transfer received by Espert in January 2020 into a United States bank account.

The investigation alleges the funds originated from Wright Brothers Aircraft Inc., a company linked to businessman Federico “Fred” Machado, who faces narcotics charges. While the transfer was officially framed as payment for advisory services provided to the Guatemalan company Minas del Pueblo, investigators claim the contract served as a front. Prosecutors noted that there is no record of Espert traveling to Guatemala or visiting the associated mine.

The prosecution contends that the funds were subsequently moved into the Argentine financial system to purchase various assets, potentially giving illicit funds the appearance of legality. In addition to Espert, the request for indictment also includes his former accountant, Mariano Cosentino. Federal Judge Lino Mirabelli of San Isidro will now decide whether to grant the request.